A DANCER'S LIFE
French choreographer Jérôme Bel excited and provoked audiences in his two previous visits to the Twin Cities ("The Show Must Go On" and "Pichet Klunchun and Myself"). Now he returns with the quieter but no less compelling work "Cédric Andrieux." The piece is really dancer Andrieux's story -- and is performed solo by him -- but Bel shaped and directed this look at a career spent working with the likes of Merce Cunningham Dance Company and the Lyon Opera Ballet. The evening includes excerpts from works by Cunningham and Trisha Brown. Don't miss this insider's look into how one artist spends his life perfecting a craft-- and the sacrifices that come with that commitment. --Caroline Palmer
- 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat.
- $16
- Walker Art Center, 1750 Hennepin Av. S., Mpls.
612-375-7600 or www.walkerart.org
SONGS FOR A SWAN
Ballet of the Dolls celebrates its 26th season in a fitting manner -- with "Songs for a Swan," a solo performance by founder and artistic director Myron Johnson. An onstage DJ will set the tone for the evening with musical selections ranging from Queen to Mozart. Expect Johnson to take stock of his 50 years spent on stage by sharing memories, perspectives, hopes for the future -- and of course dancing. This is sure to be a surprising and intimate journey. --Caroline Palmer
- 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat. & Nov. 4- 5, 7:30 p.m. Thu. & Sun. Ends Nov. 6. Pay-as-able Nov. 2.
- $27
- Ritz Theater, 345 13th Av. NE, Mpls.
- 612-436-1129 or www.ritzdolls.com
OPENING: BAT BOY
Half boy, half bat, young Edgar is the center of attention in this musical, which spoofs an old story in "The Weekly World News" about a creature allegedly found hanging around the caves of Appalachia. Minneapolis Musical Theatre is remounting the show, which was a popular hit in 2004. Tyler Michaels plays the title role. Debra Berger and Kecia Rehkamp are two of the townsfolk discovering Edgar, who eventually learns civilized manners and becomes the toast of the town. Steven Meerdink directs the production, which is being staged at Illusion Theater. Kevin Hansen is musical director. --Graydon Royce
- 7:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat.
- $25-$30
- 528 Hennepin Av. S., Mpls.
- 612-339-4944 or www.aboutmmt.org