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January 2012 Calendar of Events

By , About.com Guide

The new year is here! Now that the holidays are over, you might be looking for something different to do. Whether it's a night out with friends or a fun day with your kids, we've got you covered. Here are a few of the top events going on in Indianapolis this month.

'Disappearing Nightly: An Illusions Magic Reunion'

When was the last time you saw a good magic show? It's nearly a dying art. Why not take advantage of Indy Magic Monthly's first show of 2012? This show brings together three magicians - Dan Dygert, Marcus Lehmann and Doug Jave. These magicians were once featured at Indy's magic restaurant, Illusions, which closed eight years ago. Tickets are $20 for adults; $12 for students, military and seniors over 65.

Where: Theatre on the Square

When: January 3, 7:30 p.m.

Baggy Pants Burlesque

Ring the new year in with this hilarious dinner theatre production. Baggy Pants Burlesque is a playful musical about Vaudeville entertainment and features Beef & Boards funny men, Doug Stark and Jeff Stockberger. The show, despite its name, is not as racy as one might expect. The PG-13 production is full of comedy sketches and musical numbers, reminiscing the original burlesque fun. Tickets are $49 and include dinner.

Where: Beef & Boards Dinner Theater

When: January 3 - 7, 8 p.m.; January 8, 1:30 p.m.

'Brian McCutcheon: Out of this World'

Indianapolis-based conceptual artist Brian McCutcheon uses video, photography, and sculpture to explore the relationships between play, masculinity, and the notion of flight. McCutcheon's son is currently the same age as he was during the 1969 Apollo 11 moon landing and he chose to focus around the father/son relationship through imagery and footage related to space exploration. This exhibit is free at the Indianapolis Museum of Art, which always has free admission.

Where: Indianapolis Museum of Art

When: Now - March 4, open during regular museum hours.

'The Big Sleep' at Harmony Winery's Old Movie Night

For a relaxing evening out or a fun date night, Harmony Winery in Fishers offers a great event. Their Old Movie Nights feature classic films combined with wine tastings. Enjoy the Humphrey Bogart/Lauren Bacall film, The Big Sleep while sipping a glass of wine. Admission is the purchase of a glass of wine. Free popcorn will be served. Arrive early if you would like to participate in wine tasting.

Where: Harmony Winery, 7350 Village Square Lane, Fishers

When: January 5, 7:00 p.m.

Devour Downtown Winterfest

Devour Downtown is a bi-annual event that gives diners an opportunity to try restaurants that they might not normally consider. More than three dozen of Indy's best restaurants offer 3-course meals for $30 (some two for $30; some at lunch). Reservations may be required at some restaurants; verify with the venue.

Where: Various downtown restaurants

When: January 9 - 20

'A Brown Bear, A Moon and A Caterpillar: Treasured Stories by Eric Carle'

These popular childhood classic books come alive in this all new production that brings together old favorites and new friends. The production combines a cast from three of Eric Carle's famous books - The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Brown Bear, Brown Bear What do You See? and Papa Please Get the Moon for Me. Featuring exciting music, stunning visual effects and innovative puppetry. Tickets are $13 for adults, $8 for children.

Where: Clowes Memorial Hall

When: January 10 - 11, 10 a.m. and 12 p.m.

'Hello Dolly! in Concert'

Led by Jack Everly, the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra brings Hello Dolly! to the stage. The production stars Sandi Patty as Dolly and Gary Beach as Horace, and a full Broadway cast. Tickets range in price from $20 - $61.

Where: Hilbert Circle Theatre & Carmel Palladium (Sunday)

When: January 13 - 15, various times

'A Tribute to Ella and Basie'

Count Basie's music was known for its upbeat tempo and piano accents but when his idyllic style was matched with Ella Fitzgerald's voice - magic was born. This tribute concert stars Patti Austin, a musical legend in her own right and the Count Basie Orchestra. Featuring classic songs from the duo, this concert is part of the 2011-2012 Jazz Series at the Palladium. Tickets range in price from $18 - $113.

Where: The Palladium, Carmel

When: January 14, 8 p.m.

Indianapolis Home Show

When the weather is cold outside, it's easy to get cabin fever. Why not combat that by planning a great home renovation or garden project? The always-popular Indianapolis Home Show returns to the Indiana State Fairgrounds this month. Featuring a fully-constructed centerpiece home by Fischer Homes, the show has plenty to offer visitors in the way of dreaming. Celebrity guests include Kathy Ireland and HGTV's John Gidding of Curb Appeal: The Block, among others. Tickets are $13 for adults, children ages 6 - 12 are $3 and under 6 are free. Parking is free January 23 - 26.

Where: Indiana State Fairgrounds

When: January 20 - 29, various times

Jack's Mannequin

Jack's Mannequin is currently touring for their most recent release, 'People and Things'. The single 'Release Me' was recently nominated for 2011’s Best Live MTV Performance. Tickets are $21.50.

Where: Egyptian Room at Old National Centre

When: January 28; 7 p.m.