Tori Sparks’ recordings are fiery and surprising, and her live shows are a whole different level: terrific songs sung by a powerhouse vocalist, plus a healthy dose of impromptu comic riffing and audience interaction. Sparks will be at Local 506 tonight. She’s worth the trip. local506.com

Terra Nova Global Properties at 605 W. Main St., Carrboro, will open an exhibition of photographs of the French countryside by French photographer Katia Lecondronnel Singletary with a reception from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Dec. 21. Expect French wine, French cheeses and a certain je ne sais quoi.

The Eno Gallery on Churton Street in Hillsborough is featuring two excellent shows through December: a new exhibition with works by the superb ceramic artist Tinka Jordy, and a group exhibition called “Artists’ Favorites,” which is just what it sounds like – gallery artists’ picks of their own favorite pieces. enogallery.net.