MUSEUMS

Nov 14–May 15
Hello! Exploring the Supercute World of Hello Kitty
There are thousands upon thousands of adorable characters in the world, so what makes one become a ubiquitous pop cultural icon? In celebration of Hello Kitty’s 40th anniversary, Hello! looks at the persistent worldwide sensation that is Sanrio’s signature kitten though the lens of rare artifacts, contemporary art, and other beacons of cuteness. Experience Music Project, $22

THEATER

Fri & Sat, Nov 13 & 14
The Vaudevillians: Bringing Up the Baby
The comedic cabaret powerhouse duo of Jinkx Monsoon and Major Scales (aka the Vaudevillians) swings by Teatro ZinZanni for two midnight madcap musical performances of Bringing Up the Baby. This time around the thawed out stars of stage from the 1920s (that perform modern pop hits which were “stolen” from their repertoire) must deal with an unexplainable pregnancy while still putting on a dynamite show. It’ll be the perfect warm-up before they head across the street to make preparations for their holiday show Unwrapped at Seattle Rep (which opens November 25). Teatro ZinZanni, $20–$30

BOOKS & TALKS

Fri, Nov 13
Jesse Eisenberg with Sherman Alexie
When Jesse Eisenberg isn’t starring in films like The Social Network, End of the Tour, and the upcoming Batman v Superman, he spends his time writing. After having his humorous writing has been featured in the New Yorker and McSweeny’s, Eisenberg delivers his fiction debut with the short story collection Bream Gives Me Hiccups. As part of a Seattle Public Library event, he’ll discuss his literary bent in conversation with Sherman Alexie. Broadway Performance Hall, Free

Sat, Nov 14
Rainn Wilson
The Seattle native turned The Office star waxes comedic in a memoir that covers his band geek upbringing and Bahá’í faith. It’s certainly funnier than Backstrom (you don’t get that joke, because nobody watched Backstrom). The actor discusses his new book in conversation with John Roderick. University Temple Chapel, $27 (includes book)

COMEDY

Thur, Nov 12
Eugene Mirman
Eugene Mirman’s crafts undeniably brilliant, off-kilter comedy, and his comedic insanity reaches its peak on his new 7 LP comedy record I’m Sorry (You’re Welcome). In addition to a traditional live standup recording taped at Seattle’s Columbia City Theatre, the package includes albums of meditations, sound effects, crying, digital drugs, and more. It’s both riotously hilarious and completely overwhelming. Mirman heads to the Neptune in support of I’m Sorry (You’re Welcome) with opening support from the superb Derrick C. Brown. Neptune Theatre, $21

CONCERTS

Fri, Nov 13
Bryan John Appleby: The Narrow Valley Release Show
Seattle singer-songwriter Bryan John Appleby trades in his folk sound for the sweeping majesty of orchestra pop on his latest album The Narrow Valley. Appleby draws on the scenery and moods from his former residence in Central California for a collection of harmonious baroque sounds that call to mind the Brian Wilson. Hear the aural beauty unfold for yourself when he heads to Columbia City Theater for a record release show with Draemhouse. Columbia City Theater, $14–$17

Fri, Nov 13
Wimps: ‘Suitcase’: Release Show
Picture a stereotypical punk rocker. The type of rabble-rouser with neon liberty spikes, torn and studded clothing, and anarchistic ambitions. Got a clear image in your head? Seattle punk trio Wimps is the pure antithesis of that. The group’s goal is merely slogging though the mundanity of life, not some grandiose rebellion against the system. Wimps creates short, melodically sweet odes to things like book people, naps, unkempt living spaces, and old food as singer/guitarist Rachel Ratner vocally alternates between detached decaffeinated tones and sugar rush yelps. Wimps celebrates the release of Suitcase, its first LP on Kill Rock Stars, with a night of sweaty punk at the Funhouse featuring Stickers, Mombutt, and Boyfriends. Funhouse, $7–$10

Fri & Sat, Nov 13 & 14
’Mo-Wave 2015
Chop Suey once again becomes a beacon for queer music as the third annual ’Mo-Wave Festival takes over this weekend. The lineup mixes national headliners like rapper Le1f and the Pee Wee’s Playhouse-inspired art stage performance The Seth Bogart Show (created by the titular former frontman of Hunx and His Punx) with local music goodness from Erik Blood, SassyBlack (of THEESatisfaction), Gazebos, and Lisa Prank. Additionally, there’s a corresponding ’Mo-Wave art show at Vermillion. Chop Suey, $15–$18

FILM

Nov 12–19
Cinema Italian Style
For the seventh year running, SIFF brings together a collection of the best Italian movies from the past year for Cinema Italian Style. This year’s slate of 15 films features four David di Donatello Award (the Italian equivalent of the Academy Awards) winners: God Willing, My Mother, The Dinner, and The Legendary Giulia and Other Miracles. Whether you’re looking for honest human drama or screwball comedy, there’s something on the mini fest’s menu for every taste. SIFF Cinema Uptown, $12–$25; Festival pass $100

Sat & Sun, Nov 14 & 15
Seattle Shorts Film Festival 2015
The fifth annual Seattle Shorts Film Festival brings together 31 of the very best independent short films from around the world and crams them into two days of cinematic excitement. With over 40 guests and filmmakers scheduled to be in attendance, it’s sure to be a festive celebration of the magic of minute movies. SIFF Film Center, Sold out