Friday
The Santaland Diaries: The sardonic holiday perennial from David Sedaris, this time with Mitchell Fain as the reluctant dispenser of holiday cheer. Through Jan. 3 at Theatre Building Chicago, 1225 W. Belmont Ave.; $28 at 773-327-5252.
Sunday
The Christmas Schooner: Now under the direction of Mary Beidler Gearen and featuring an expanded orchestra, the much-loved “Schooner” brings down the final curtain on the Bailiwick Arts Center. Through Jan. 1 at Bailiwick Theatre, 1229 W. Belmont Ave.; $25-$35 at 773-883-1090.
A Christmas Carol: Larry Yando returns for his second year as the mean-but-redeemable financier in the Goodman’s holiday tradition, directed by William Brown. Through Dec. 31 in the Goodman’s Albert Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St.; $25-$72 at 312-443-3800.
Monday
The Snow Queen: Various improvements have been made to this folk-oriented musical treatment of the classic story of love and sacrifice. Michael Smith returns as the show’s narrator. Through Dec. 28 by Victory Gardens at the Biograph, 2433 N. Lincoln Ave.; $20-$48 at 773-871-3000 .
Tuesday
Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol: After a long hiatus, Tom Mula returns with his quirky but moving show that tells Dickens’ tale from the point of view of Jacob Marley, the dead ghost with all those chains. Through Jan. 3 at Theatre Building Chicago, 1225 W. Belmont Ave.; $28 at 773-327-5252.
Wednesday
The Maids: Jimmy McDermott of Writers’ Theatre directs this new production of the bizarre and erotic 1947 play from Jean Genet. Through April 5 at Books on Vernon, 664 Vernon Ave., Glencoe; $40-$65 at 847-242-6000.
