North End Arts Tour, Nov. 30–Dec. 2 This self-guided tour will take visitors to six home studios and galleries in North Seattle, with more than 25 local artists available to discuss their work. The tour will take place 4 to 9 p. m. Nov. 30 and 10 a. m. to 5 p. m. Dec. 1 and 2. Information/map: www.neatseattle.com

‘Bad Art” from Sweden, Nov. 30–March 30, 2013

The Nordic Heritage Museum will host the U. S. debut of the exhibit “Bad Art? 1,000 Birch-Board Pictures from Sweden,” the largest collection of its kind in the world. The museum also will host concurring events throughout the winter about these mixed-media works of folk art that were once sold as tourist souvenirs. 3014 N. W. 67th St. Information: www.nordicmuseum.org

‘It’s Your Wonderful Life’ improvised, Dec. 6–21

Wing-It Productions presents “the holiday classic you haven’t seen yet”: an unscripted play inspired by the film “It’s a Wonderful Life.” The tale of George Bailey now becomes the life story of a different audience volunteer each performance. 5510 University Way N. E. Information/tickets: wingitpresents.com/wonderfullife‘Nutcracker Sweets,’ Dec. 15

ARC Dance presents its version of the hour-long holiday ballet, featuring students of the Arc School of Ballet, in two performances fit for young audiences: at 1 p. m. and 5 p. m. Seattle Center’s Leo K. Theatre, 155 Mercer St. Information/tickets:www.arcdance.orgor (206) 352-0798

‘Avenue Q,’ Through Dec. 15

Balagan Theatre is producing the regional premiere of the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical that is filled with “felt, flesh and heart.” It involves the use of puppets to tell the coming-of-age parable of a recent college graduate who moves into a New York City apartment. Erickson Theatre Off Broadway, 1524

Harvard Ave. Information: www.balagantheatre.org/avenue.html

‘A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words,’ Through Dec. 23

The Kirsten Gallery is showcasing Byron Birdsall’s Northwest scenes in the main exhibit and Diana Friend’s tribute to the Northwest in her “Inside Northwestern Hardwoods,” which features artistic bowls. 5320 Roosevelt Way N. E. Information: (206) 522-2011