Priority list includes Alan Cumming, holiday offerings

Here's a starter list for promising stuff to do through Dec. 4.

Alan Cumming

The Broadway star of “Cabaret” nailed his set at the Cabaret at the Columbia Club a season or so ago with his set of what he calls "Sappy Songs." (Find my review of the show here.) Far more people though, saw another iteration of that set on a recent PBS special. Television, though, doesn't compare to seeing him live and here's another opportunity to do just that. Dec. 3 Palladium  Details

Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith with the ISO

Looking for something to do Thanksgiving weekend besides polish off leftover turkey? The country artists offer their Christmas show backed by the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. Some of the proceeds will go to Operation Christmas Child, which distributes gifts to kids in need. Opening act is Jordan Smith, a past winner of “The Voice.” Nov. 26 Bankers Life Fieldhouse  Details

“The Nutcracker Presents: Another Twisted Classic”

NoExit Performance’s twisted version of “The Nutcracker” has been an off-and-on staple in the Indy holiday lineup. Now, though, Wolfgang Drosselmeyer (Ryan Mullins) and his crazed crew venture into other holiday tales with their unique blend of vaudeville, circus, dance and puppetry. Recommended for ages 16 and up.  Dec. 1-4 Tube Factory  Details

Also:

On Nov. 25-26, “Cotton Club Soulful Christmas” turns the Athenaeum into the legendary nightspot.

Local favorite Josh Kauffman is host of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s “Yuletide Celebration” with guest appearances by twin tap dancers Sean and John Scott. The extravaganza runs Dec. 2-23 at Hilbert Circle Theatre.

"Such a Night," Nov. 25 at Radio Radio, recreates The Band's "Last Waltz" concert.

Megan Hilty brings her holiday show to the Cabaret for its final engagement at the Columbia Club Nov. 28-29.

The Indianapolis Museum of Art screens “A Muppet Christmas Carol” Dec. 3.

“B: The Underwater Bubble Show” features giant bubbles—and lots of smaller ones,  Nov. 22 at Emens Auditorium in Muncie

Carrie Newcomer plays at The Church Within Dec. 2.

For “Winter Gift,” Dec. 3 at the Indiana History Center, Storytelling Arts of Indiana bundles Patrick Ball, Lisa Lynne and Aryeh Frankfurter into an evening of holiday music mixed with Celtic winter legends.

The Indiana Repertory Theatre’s production of “A Christmas Carol” returns through Dec. 24.