Save the Date: High school theatrical productions entertaining respite from cold

With a chill in the air, it’s a good weekend to enjoy the warm lights of the stage. Prairie High School brings the classic Broadway musical “Hello Dolly!” to life. Dolly is a bit of a meddler with good intentions as a widow who enjoys playing matchmaker. She’s set her sights on winning half-millionaire Horace for herself. The show begins at 7 tonight at Prairie High School, 11311 N.E. 119th St., Vancouver. Tickets are $12, $8 for seniors, $6 for students. Call 360-885-5000 or visit www.prairiehighschool.org

• Battle Ground High School Drama Club presents the stage adaptation of “The Outsiders.” Ponyboy, a young Greaser, and his friends are caught up in a territorial battle against the rich kids known as the Socs. When he meets Cherry Vance, Ponyboy realizes she’s nothing like the Socs he’s met before. The drama begins at 7 tonight and Nov. 20-22 at Battle Ground High School, 300 W. Main St., Battle Ground. Tickets are $10, $5 for students and seniors. Call 360-885-6500 or visit bghs.battlegroundps.org.

• The community talk show “Hello Vancouver!” returns at 7 p.m. Nov. 19 to the Kiggins Theatre, 1011 Main St., Vancouver. Hosted by Temple Lentz, this show’s installment will feature author Erik Wecks, Rojo the Therapy Llama and music by Medium Size Kids. Admission is free. Visit www.hellovancouver.us

• Annual traditions are fast approaching. Registration for the Clark County Turkey Trot is now open, featuring a family-friendly 5K run/walk and a 10K run along the Salmon Creek Trail held the morning of Thanksgiving. All proceeds will benefit the Clark County Food Bank. Participation is capped at 1,200 racers, so early registration is recommend. People can also register for the Polar Bear Plunge into Klineline Pond taking place after the runs. Race registration is $25. Call 360-693-0939 or visit www.turkey-trot.org

• The Hot Buttered Run will be held Nov. 30 for an active way to kick off the holiday season in Esther Short Park. The event includes a 12K run, a 5K walk/run and a kids “kandy kane” race, as part of that weekend’s Festival of the Trees festivities. After the race, participants can enjoy a hot beverage, music and awards. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Race to Remember, the Boys & Girls Club and Clark County Food Bank. Registration is $45 to $50; $18 for ages 18 and younger, $8 to $12 for the kids race. Visit www.energyevents.com/hotbutteredrun

• The Christmas Ships will mark 60 years of the decorated tradition starting Dec. 5 as participating boats sail along the Columbia River. The parade will make a special showing Dec. 6 at the Port of Camas-Washougal, with visitors invited to watch the parade in the port’s meeting room. The Christmas Ships will continue Dec. 8 through 21 along the Columbia River. Some of the best viewing spots are in restaurants along the river, with reservations recommended. For more information, visit www.christmasships.org

• And the first of many ballets kick off with Vancouver Dance Theatre’s “The Nutcracker” at 7 p.m. Dec. 5, 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 6 and 2 p.m. Dec. 7. The annual ballet showcases the familiar story of brave toys and a visit to the wondrous lands of treats. The performance takes place at Fort Vancouver High School, 5700 E. 18th St., Vancouver. Tickets are $13, free for ages 2 and younger. Call 360-601-1770 or visit www.vancouverdancetheatre.com