Monday nights are the Contemporary Jazz Orchestra Big Band nights at North Beach mainstay Jazz at Pearl's. They play the classic jazz orchestra works (Ellington, Mingus) and also some hard bop. Two shows (one at 8, one at 10), $15 + 2-drink minimum, 256 Columbus (x Pacific). Other events: --Salsa and swing dance lessons at Julie's Supper Club, with burlesque performers on the hour. 8-11 p.m., $6 after 8 p.m. (half hour lesson), $10 by......

Whether you observe National Buy Nothing Day or not, take a break this weekend to do some early holiday theatergoing....

This week American Conservatory Theater takes the lead again, but never fear, you edgy theatergoers, because we've thrown in some shows at the always-hip Exit Theatres. ...

A weekly roundup of interesting theater you can check out this weekend. This week: A.C.T.'s "The Black Rider," a Neil Simon play, a world premiere from Shotgun Players, an Iranian drama, and another plug for the current production by the company that features one of EssEffist's writers....