Water is often underestimated as our most precious and life-depending resource. Look at how far clean water technology has come and what specifically is being done right here in our community at this Big Ideas discussion. bigideasforum@gmail.com; bigideasforum.info

Two-time Tony Award winner Sutton Foster and multi-talented pianist Seth Rudetsky present a cabaret-style concert not to be missed. $59–89. Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. 2nd St., Scottsdale. 8 p.m. 480-499-8587; scottsdaleperformingarts.org

Alyson Miller, Marless Fellows, Nancy Romanovsky and April Howland will be the featured demonstrating artists. Free. The Gallery at El Pedregal, 34505 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale. Second Floor. 480-575-6685; sonoranartsleague.org

Sharon Brening, Cave Creek Museum’s artist in residence will discuss how her canvases allow viewers to share a personal glimpse into the lives of people that shape the American landscape. Free with museum admission. Cave Creek Museum, 6140 E. Skyline Dr., Cave Creek. 2–3:30 p.m. 480-488-2764; cavecreekmuseum.org

The Carolyn Eynon Singers will present Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” Refreshments will be served and children will love the historic Old English Dickens village. $25/adults; $12.50/children under 12 years. Christ the Lord Lutheran Church, 9205 E. Cave Creek Rd., Carefree. 4 p.m. ctlcarefree.org

North Valley Symphony Orchestra presents “Winter Wonderland,” including classical holiday favorites, and a visit from Santa. Free. North Canyon High School, 1700 E. Union Hills Dr., Phoenix.7 p.m. northvalleysymphony.org

Enjoy the sounds of the season, including classic carols and popular holiday music presented by Musical Theatre of Anthem. $15. 42201 N. 41st Dr., Suite B100, Anthem. 7 p.m. 623-336-6001; musicaltheatreofanthem.org

Experience a birthday celebration of the Episcopal martyr and chief spokesman for the Civil Rights Movement, Martin Luther King Jr., with traditional gospel music repertoire, script and media. Experience an evening filled with strong emotion as you witness the historical presentation of Martin Luther King Jr.’s life. Free-will offering. The Episcopal Church of the Nativity,...

Jan Sandwich and Nicole Pesce present a wonderful new show filled with backstage stories, humor, and of course, great songs like “Tammy,” “Singin' in the Rain” and many more. Free. RSVP. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Rd., Cave Creek. 1–2 p.m. 480-488-2286; desertfoothillslibrary.org

Join the Phoenix Symphony for a visual and auditory treat as they play the scores for some of your favorite classic films and television. $25+. Phoenix Symphony Hall, 75 N. 2nd St., Phoenix. See website for schedule. 602-495-1999; phoenixsymphony.org