Theater Wit’s “Who’s Holiday!” (Credit: Charles Osgood)

Is there a better way to rile your belligerent out-of-state uncle than investing in culture that brings people together? Brighten your Black Friday – and Saturday and Sunday – by taking part in a communal experience in the arts. Preferably something that would make your uncle cry uncle.

“Who’s Holiday!” - Theater Wit

No, it’s not a Pete Townshend Christmas album. It’s grown-up Cindy Lou Who from “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” She’s now 40 and wants to fill you in on some backstory. Oh, and she speaks in R-rated rhymes that might make Dr. Seuss blush. Opens Friday, Nov. 29.

“Rodgers & Hammerstein’s The Sound of Music Sing-A-Long” - Music Box

Sing-along with Julie Andrews and boo the Nazis. While you ponder the meaning of “How do you catch a cloud and pin it down?” there’s also a costume contest, trivia, and a souvenir tote bag that might come in handy if you need to flee the country. Through Dec. 5.

“House without a Christmas Tree” - Griffin Theatre
A beloved TV movie from the 1970s is now a new musical. It’s the emotional story of a girl in 1940s Nebraska who doesn’t understand why dad hates trees. (Hint: it has nothing to do with the needles they shed.) Now in previews.

“Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol” – Lifeline Theatre
Actor Tom Mula portrayed Ebenezer Scrooge for years at the Goodman, and then wrote this re-appraisal of Jacob Marley, Scrooge’s business partner. Lifeline ensemble member Phil Timberlake stars in this one-man show and plays all 19 characters. Previews start Friday, Nov. 29.

“The Upsetters” – Center for Native Futures
Chicago’s gallery of Native and Indigenous artists looks to the future with an eye on the past. Here, contemporary paintings take the stage. The center, across the street from Federal Plaza, is definitely worth checking out. In fact, drag your uncle if he’s still in town. Through Jan. 18

Marc Vitali is the JCS Fund of the DuPage Foundation Arts Correspondent.