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The Big Ticket

SubUrban Thursday: Martinis & Mood Light
Begin with a gallery talk by photographic artist David S. Allee. Finish with cocktails. Thursday, Nov. 18, 6:30-10 p.m. Knoxville Museum of Art. Free.

Acoustic Syndicate
Traditional bluegrass gets a course in jazz and rock. Friday, Nov. 19, 9 p.m. Blue Cats. $12.

Hard Knox Blues All-Stars Tribute to Sara Jordan
A who’s who of local musical stars. Friday, Nov. 19, 5:30-8 p.m. Knoxville Museum of Art. $7 general, $4 KMA members, UT students w/ ID.

Sara Schwabe & Her Yankee Jass Band
Playing jazzy holiday tunes and festive family-friendly fare for the Christmas Tree lighting festival. Friday, Nov. 19, 6-9 p.m. Market Square, and 9-11 p.m. Preservation Pub. Free.

Quarter to Nine
Rising Nashville-based rockers supporting their debut disc. Friday, Nov. 19, 9 p.m. Prince Deli & Sports Bar. $5.

Little Rodger and the Cheap Thrills
Got them low-down blues. Saturday, Nov. 20, 9 p.m. Brackins. $5.

Bad Wizard and The Witnesses
Pre-metal ‘70s garage rock with big hair and a little psychedelia. Sunday, Nov. 21, 9 p.m. Pilot Light. $5.

Sarah Clapp
Taking your breath away with her stupendous voice. Tuesday, Nov. 23, 9:30 p.m. 4620. Free.

Fantasy of Trees
Designer trees, decorations, poinsettias and more. Wednesday, Nov. 24 thru Sunday, Nov. 28, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday: 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thursday: 3-9 p.m.; Sunday: 12-9 p.m. Knoxville Convention Center. $8 adults, $4 children ages 4-11.

Sweeney Todd
Perhaps only Stephen Sondheim could write a musical about a serial killing barber that wins eight Tonys the year of its Broadway debut in 1979. That production starred Angela Lansbury as Mrs. Lovett, a cackling Cockney pie shop proprietress who gets mixed up with a bloodthirsty barber in 19th century London. Our local version of the macabre tale is a collaboration between Tin Soldier productions and UT, which is lending a director—Carroll Freeman, the opera theatre program’s artistic director who recently directed Knoxville Opera’s The Magic Flute—and a musical conductor—James Fellenbaum, who directs the school’s orchestral activities. UT opera theatre students will give voice to Sondheim’s wittiest and wickedest songs enhanced by a backdrop reminiscent of Dr. Seuss meets Tim Burton. Tucked inside the close quarters of the Bijou Theatre, Sweeney Todd should leave audiences with a sneaky gleam in their eyes and some wicked songs in their hearts. (Paige M. Travis)
Sweeney Todd • Friday, Nov. 19 thru Monday, Nov. 22, 8 p.m. • Bijou Theatre Center • $18 general, $15 seniors, children • Call 656-4444 for tickets.

Celebration of Lights
Before we’ve had the chance to carve the Thanksgiving turkey and pass the cranberry sauce, the most wonderful time of the year has arrived. The holiday season comes earlier each year, but it always seems official and acceptable once the Christmas tree is lavishly decorated and glowing with light. Garnished with fresh green wreaths and original holiday banners created by local artists, Market Square hosts the Celebration of Lights, including a lighting ceremony led by Mayor Bill Haslam, carols sung by country star Jessica Andrews, free pictures made with old Saint Nick and cookie decorating tips from Mrs. Claus. Mayor Haslam will read classic holiday stories at the Children’s Chat area, and couples can enjoy romantic carriage rides through a Winter Wonderland. Street performers and mysterious magicians will join in the festivities with baffling tricks and spirited shows for all ages. Don’t wait for the 12 days of Christmas this year. Embrace the holiday season early with family and friends, and who knows, you may even see Mommy kissing Santa Claus. (Melissa Elkins)
Celebration of Lights • Friday, Nov. 19, 6-9 p.m. • Market Square • Free

Rock For Toys w/ the Exies and Copper
There’s nothing wrong with ear candy, especially when it’s as tasty and rockin’ as the Exies, whose forthcoming release Head to the Door was produced by Knoxville expatriate Nick Raskulinecz. With an approach that nods at Nirvana, STP, and Foo Fighters, the Exies at their best somehow manage to sound edgy and radio friendly at the same time. Opening for the band is Knoxville’s Copper, who are no slouches themselves when it comes to making powerful, compelling pop rock. (Mike Gibson)
Rock For Toys w/ the Exies and Copper • Wednesday, Nov. 24, 9 p.m. • Blue Cats • Admission is $5, or a packaged toy worth at least the same. Toys and money will benefit local underprivileged children.