12/11/13: Today’s Tips: Wednesday

MUSIC: Matisyahu @ Club Helsinki, Hudson. Almost a year to the day that he last performed at Club Helsinki, the Grammy-nominated reggae-rock performer returns with his annual, acoustic Festival of Light tour. With Levi Robin. 8pm. $45.

MUSIC: Conditions @ Upstate Concert Hall, Clifton Park. With Lions Lions, the Orphan the Poet, Survivor Divine and A Little More Us (celebrating the release of their new CD). 7pm. $14.

THEATER: “A Christmas Carol” @ Capital Repertory Theatre, Albany. Michael Bush directs Broadway and Cap Rep fave Kevin McGuire star in the role of Ebenezer Scrooge in Patrick Barlow’s adaptation of Charles Dickens’ holiday classic, at once funny and poignant. 7:30pm. $20-$60; $16 students. Through December 22.

MUSIC: Lee Shaw @ the Stockade Inn, Schenectady. 6pm. FREE.

WORKSHOP: Tricks of the Trade: Writing Your Song @ MCLA Gallery 51, North Adams. A quartet of very accomplished musicians – Jennifer Crowell, Zara Bode, Emily Miller and Stefan Amidon – offer their tutelage and guide you into writing your own personal holiday jingle. 6pm. FREE.