An ode to Gilbert & Sullivan

On Stage

Gilbert & Sullivan revisited
Enjoy the sardonic wit and humor of Gilbert and Sullivan when the Gilbert & Sullivan Light Opera Company of Long Island presents “Gilbert & Sullivan’s Greatest Hits” this weekend. This new revue of some of the most popular songs from the duo’s operas is performed by a quintet of the company’s singers. The show includes W.S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan’s most memorable and hilarious songs from “The Mikado,” “HMS Pinafore,” “The Pirates of Penzance,” and “Iolanthe,” along with a few surprises. The evening begins with the 40 minute comic opera “Trial by Jury,” which tells the story of a lawsuit involving a breach of promise of marriage. The absurdities that can come from such a case were just the sort of subject to inspire Gilbert to pen one of his funniest and most satiric librettos and Sullivan to write some of his most sparkling tunes.
Saturday, Jan. 8, 8 p.m. $15. Levittown Hall, 201 Levittown Pkwy., Hicksville. For information, visit www.gilbert-and-sullivan.net.

Family Fun

Strega Nona the Musical
The story of the magical grandmother and her mischievous assistant comes to life when Tomie dePaola’s beloved characters take to the stage in “Strega Nona the Musical.” Strega Nona tells the story of a friendly witch who uses her magical powers to the heal aches and pains of her family, friends and neighbors. When Strega Nona seeks an assistant to help her with her daily chores, the tall, clumsy Big Anthony is the first to respond. Strega Nona warns Anthony to stay away from her magic pasta pot, but the curious boy cannot resist. The magic pot turns out to be too much for Big Anthony to handle and soon the town is flooded by pasta. It is up to Strega Nona to save the day.
Saturday, Jan. 8, 2 p.m. $20 and $12. A reader’s-theater family workshop takes place before the show, in which families can play a part in the tale of Strega Nona and her magical pasta pot. Reservations required. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, C.W. Post Campus, Rte. 25A, Brookville. (800) 745-3000 or www.ticketmaster.com or www.tillescenter.org.

Exploring Nature

Special Places at Muttontown
Explore Muttontown Preserve on a guided winter hike. Visit the “Succession Field Trail,” onetime farmland that has been reclaimed over the years by woods; the “Tall Conifers,” comprising white pine, spruce and larch planted in 1909; “Hidden Pond,” a kettle pond tucked away in the preserve that is a great spot for bird-watching; and “Glacial Kame,” a type of hilly deposit formed during the ice age. The walk will cover three miles over somewhat rough terrain.
Sunday, Jan. 9, 10 a.m.- noon. $5. Enrollment is limited and registration is required. Bill Paterson Nature Center, Muttontown Preserve, Muttontown Lane, East Norwich. (516) 571-8500.