Priority list includes a singing sister, a Sinatra celebration, more

“Sister Act”

A Vegas performer who goes into hiding at a convent after witnessing a murder is one of two first-time-at-the-Beef shows this season. Based on the hit film starring Whoopi Goldberg, its fresh score by Alan Menken’s music helps make it one of the better recent screen-to-stage shows.

Feb. 11-March 26 Beef & Boards  Details

“Sinatra Centennial,”

Guest Tony DeSare has contributed to some memorable pops and cabaret concerts in town, and he knows how to evoke the energy and spirit of Frank Sinatra without resorting to impersonation. Liz Callaway is an outstanding vocalist who has performed here before, including a Yuletide Celebration stint. And the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra knows how to swing. Sounds good to me.

Feb. 12-13 Hilbert Circle Theatre   Details

“Once”

It’s the first-time-in-Indy appearance for the Tony-winning musical about a street musician who, well, if you don’t already know from the movie, then let yourself get lost in this low-key but powerful story featuring a terrific score played by onstage musicians.  Feb. 9-14 Clowes Hall  Details

Midwinter Dance Festival

Classical and modern mix in Butler’s annual event—actually two events with different programs on alternating nights. Included: a world premiere by Canadian choreographer Lesley Telford. Feb. 10-14 Schrott Center  Details

Also this week

Brenda Williams offers an Art & Soul concert in the Artsgarden Feb. 10.

Bashiri Asad presents “I Want You: A Tribute to Marvin Gaye” Feb. 12 at the Jazz Kitchen.

On Feb. 13 at the Basile Opera Center, Encore Vocal Arts plays both sides of the Valentine’s Day fence in a “He Loves Me/She Loves Me Not” concert that includes Brahms’ romantic “Liebeslieder Walzer” as well as the premiere of an anti-Valentine’s work by Jay Kawarsky. Tango dancers perform during both pieces.

In addition to visual art, comedy, music, poetry and a fashion show are on the bill for the “Meet the Artists 2016 Gala Opening Reception” Feb. 13 at the Central Library.

The Phoenix Theatre presents Joseph Zettelmaier’s “Pulp,” a contemporary spin on 1930s mystery, Feb. 11-March 6. Meanwhile, Theatre on the Square offers Tracy Letts’ bloody “Killer Joe”