The Winter Wolf, Otherworld Theatre, through Jan. 6. A plucky young girl and a predatory harbinger of death both learn the limits of their powers while discovering the extent of their humanity in Joseph Zettelmaier's smart new fable for young sci-fi fans of all ages. MSB
The Old Woman Broods, Trap Door Theatre, through Jan. 19. This relic of 20th-century Absurdist Theater shows its age, but Manuela Rentea's infectious charm and a high-stepping ensemble transform it into a vibrant carnival of multisensory spectacle. MSB
Gypsy, Porchlight Music Theatre, through Dec. 29. E. Faye Butler is ferocious yet tender in this exceptional production of a legendary musical. Butler was born to play Mama Rose. JA
The Q Brothers Christmas Carol, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, through Dec. 30. Even in Year Six, this 90-minute rap/hip-hop version of the holiday classic still is a cheeky, edgy, mile-a-minute delight. You'll smile and tap your toes. JA
By Abarbanel, Barnidge and Sullivan