Hope Bernier is among the young local actors appearing in the The Youth Performing Arts Conservatory and ArtsCenter Stage's production of a play based on Dylan Thomas's classic poem, "A Child's Christmas in Wales," Dec. 11-14 at The ArtsCenter, 300-G E. Main St., Carrboro. The cast features eight YPAC students and three professional actors, with original music by Shannon O'Neill performed by O'Neill, Stu Cole, Bryon Settle and Billy Sugarfix. Shows are Dec. 11-13 at 7:30 p.m., Dec. 14 at 3 p.m. Admission is $15, $14 for ArtsCenter Friends. 929-2787, www.artscenterlive.org.

Santa will be on hand for photos Dec. 11-12 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

DECEMBER 12

Peg Bachenheimer's paintings are among the works in a group show by the Artists of the Open Studio, a group of artists who gather to paint together most Friday mornings, on display in the East End Gallery at The ArtsCenter, 300-G E. Main St., Carrboro. A reception will be held during the 2nd Friday ArtWalk, Dec. 12 from 6 to 9 p.m. www.2ndfridayartwalk.com

DECEMBER 12

Catharine Carter's abstract acrylics are on display at Bill Hester Fine Art through December, along with impasto landscapes by Joan Meade and paintings by Ebeth Scott-Sinclair. A reception will be held Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. Bill Hester Fine Art is at at 143F W. Franklin St., in University Square. 960-0059, www.billhesterfineart.com.

DECEMBER 15

The Trekky Yuletide Orchestra's annual Christmas concert at the Cat's Cradle, 300 E. Main St., Carrboro. The Trekky group -- made up of artists on the Trekky Records label -- has lined up a bunch of other area bands to join them, including Megafaun, Sorry About Dresden, The Future Kings of Nowhere, The Scene of the Crime Rovers, North Elementary, The International Grapevine and Rock & Roll Elf (featuring members of Kingsbury Manx). Billy Sugarfix will host the proceedings, which include music, food and drink, raffles, Christmas movies and more. Proceeds benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $8 in advance, $10 at the door. 967-9053, www.catscradle.com.