Drama and Comedy

Simons Rock College in Great Barrington presents POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS, a long-form comedy improv troupe from Verona, NJ on Friday, November 30 at 9 p.m. in the Kellogg Music Center. PSE has played shows all across the country to amazed and amused audiences at colleges, benefits, private parties and comedy clubs. Free and open to the public; for more info call 413-528-7335.

Simsbury Public Library, Hopmeadow St. in Simsbury presents AN AFTERNOON WITH WALT WHITMAN on Sunday, December 3 at 3 p.m. Stephen Collins portrays a pensive Walt Whitman in his one-man show, in which Whitman reminisces and questions his success as a man and a poet. During his reverie, Whitman transforms into a younger, more vibrant self to explore the experiences which led to the creation of "Leaves of Grass," his lifetime of work. Free and open to the public; please reserve a seat by calling 860-658-7663.

Thomaston Opera House, 158 Main St. in Thomaston presents "IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE" through December 8 with performances at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and at 2 p.m. on Sundays. This holiday classic is one of the most uplifting and most beloved stories ever told. Tickets are $13 in advance, $15 at the door; for more info call 860-283-6250.

Hartford Stage, 50 Church St. in Hartford presents Eve Ensler's "NECESSARY TARGETS" through December 23. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday; 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday; with 2 p.m. weekday and 2:30 p.m. weekend matinees on select dates. This is a story of two Americans who go to war-torn Bosnia to assist refugee women in confronting the devastation of their homeland and their shattered lives. Tickets are $22-$60; for more info call 860-527-5151.