Must-See Shows

On Sunday, January 17, at 7pm, California Center for the Arts, Escondido presents American writer, singer/songwriter, actor, and musician Kris Kristofferson. His most recent release, Closer to the Bone, marks a distinguished career that includes American classics such as “Me and Bobby McGee” and “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down.” The album is a deftly observed, honestly executed work about love, separation, loss, and mortality, with subject matter ranging from the musician’s family (“From Here to Forever,” “The Wonder”) to Kristofferson’s late friend Johnny Cash (“Good Morning John”). Tickets are $40-$49.

Then, on Saturday, January 23, at 8pm, Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood of the famed Emmy-nominated series Whose Line Is It Anyway? present a truly unique improvisational experience. Guests are invited to become a part of the show when this creative comedic team takes the stage for an interactive evening of entertainment, driven by audience suggestions. Mochrie and Sherwood will present several new improv games as well as some of their classics, such as “Sound Effects” and the “Deadly Mousetrap Improv.” Tickets are $36.50-$46.50. (800/988-4253, www.artcenter.org)   JANE SHIOMI