THEATER - The Mystery of Irma Vep
Charles Ludlam’s cult-classic play, a hodgepodge sendup of gothic-horror tropes in which two actors play eight (or more?) characters, requires split-second quick changes. See if director Sean Graney and his cast, Erik Hellman and Chris Sullivan, pull it off at tonight’s opening performance. Court Theatre, 3, 8pm, $38–$56.

AROUND TOWN - Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
Watching 1 million lights flicker on from Oak Street to Wacker Drive at 5:30pm is only part of this fest. The celebration starts early with a concert at 11am by Justin Roberts, Mitchel Musso and the Plain White Ts. Other events from 5–10pm include a lights procession with streetside entertainment, an attempt to break the world record for the largest group of holiday carolers, appearances by Mickey Mouse, and a fireworks display  over the Chicago River. Area stores keep extended hours to coax revelers to get a head start on their holiday shopping. Pioneer Court, 401 N Michigan Ave (312-409-5560, magnificentmilelightsfestival.com). 11am–10pm.

COMEDY - Audacity of Nope or How I Fell for a Pansy Scheme
Sketch troupe Gayco takes satirical swipes at same-sex marriage, religious-based bigotry and FOX News in this queer-themed show.

ART & DESIGN - “James Welling: Hapax Legomena.”
The L.A. photographer, who was featured in the 2008 Whitney Biennial, shows 30 works from various stages of his career. Donald Young Gallery, 224 S Michigan Ave, suite 266. 5–7pm. FREE!

NIGHTLIFE - Dimes & Dozens
Local, hipster culture website Rubyhornet.com teams with L.A. institution Dubfrequency for this monthly, indie hip-hop-centric night at Lava. For this edition Cool Kids top the bill with DJ VIPJ on the decks and MC Mikey Rocks playing host. DJs RTC and HeroGeorge are also on hand. Lava. 10pm, $5.