The exploits of men have long filled the pages of history books, but women have made important contributions too. Kristin Lems will tell some true stories about a number of them and perform songs that sing their praises. They are a diverse group of courageous, talented American women and girls that are worthy of attention and worth knowing.”Once and Future Women,” 2 p.m. Saturday, Thomas Hughes Children’s Library, Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State St., free; 312-747-4200.
— Nancy Maes
1, 2, 3, 4 sing
Lots of people will lend their voices to a Kids Fare program called “Sing, Sing, Sing.” The program will include songs by one person singing alone and others performed by duets, trios, quartets and choruses. Children will hear music such as “Cantate Domino,” which may be unfamiliar, and numbers including the Alicia Keys’ song “Fallin'” that they will recognize. Young audience members will discover that music like this can express emotions that they have felt. Because people singing together also creates a sense of community, children will get a chance to sing along with the performers on stage. “Sing, Sing, Sing,” 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, 1977 S. Campus Drive, Northwestern University, Evanston, $4.50 adults, $2 children; 847-491-5441.
— Nancy Maes
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Eccentric relative
A delightfully wacky tale that whisks kids through a decade of adventures arrives at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre Saturday. “A Long Way From Chicago” is presented as part of the Metropolis Children’s Theater program. You’ll watch as Joey and Mary Alice grow into adulthood and learn to accept and enjoy their grandmother’s eccentricities. Due to popular demand for tickets, more matinee shows have been added. “A Long Way From Chicago” 11 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, 10:30 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. Monday, 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Tuesday through March 15, 11 a.m. March 16 and 17, Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights, $9; 847-577-2121.
— Stephanie Price
Magic and music
The Downers Grove Choral Society presents “The Magical Musical Time Machine” Saturday. This show features magic, music and juggling by Kevin Adair and Chicago Rose. Adair is known for his comedy, magic, storytelling and ability to keep his audience involved from start to finish. Chicago Rose sings in Spanish, Italian, Japanese and English and also plays piano, flute and ukulele. The show is presented as part of the Choral Society’s annual children’s concert. “The Magical Musical Time Machine,” 3 to 4:15 p.m. Saturday, the Avery Coonley School Performing Arts Center, 1400 Maple Ave., Downers Grove, $3 age 16 and younger, $5 ages 17 and older; 630-515-0030.
— Stephanie Price
Roving music
The Irish Rovers get St. Patrick’s Day celebrations off to a musical start Saturday at the Rialto Square Theatre. The Irish Rovers have performed their Celtic tunes all over the world, and their repertoire will include all sorts of cheerful, melodious songs that inspire the audience to clap hands and sing along. The Irish Rovers, 8 p.m. Saturday, Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, $32, $27 and $22; 815-726-6600.
— Pat Harper
Sap facts
Families can learn about the origin of the maple syrup that sweetens morning pancakes. A program in Romeoville will explain how to tap a maple tree, gather the sap and turn it into a sweet treat, as well as recount some Native American tales. “Maple as a Staple,” 2 p.m. Sunday, Isle a la Cache Museum, 135th Street east of U.S. Highway 53, Romeoville, $2; 815-886-1467.
— Pat Harper