THEATRE | Hairspray

Adapted from John Waters’ 1988 musical Hairspray, this larger-than-life play tells the story of Tracy Turnblad, a poor, ambitious teenager who lands a featured spot dancing on the Corny Collins Show, a hugely popular after school television program in the tradition of American Bandstand. Dancing on the show was every girl’s dream at the unpopular but good-hearted Tracy’s high school, and when she is unexpectedly awarded the honor after a dance contest, a veritable class war between her and Amber von Tussle, the quintessential wealthy bitch, erupts in their hometown. Before long, Tracy finds herself fighting for racial equality on the Corny Collins Show, but despite this segment’s somewhat serious subject matter, the play remains lighthearted and hilarious. Carly Jibson and Bruce Vilanch star in the touring Broadway ensemble. Through Nov. 7. 8 p.m. Tickets $30-97. Colonial Theatre, 106 Boylston St. (LN)

sat, nov 1

MUSIC | Pete Pidgeon and Arcoda

If you’re up for a night of Phish-channeling, this show is for you. Boston-based jam band Arcoda headline. Mamacita, Clemmy’s Guttatta, Sam Bigelow and Lifted join them. 8 p.m. $8. 18+. The Middle East (Downstairs), 472 Mass. Ave. (SLS)

MISC | El Dia de Los Muertos Celebration

Go to celebrate Halloween, Mexican-style. The event promises altars, art, film, demonstrations, food, performances, and more. 2 to 9 p.m. Tickets $15, $10 students. The Cambridge Multicultural Arts Center, 41 Second St., Cambridge. (SLS)

sun, nov 2

MUSIC | Herbie Hancock Quartet

Grammy and Academy Award winner Hancock is a highly acclaimed performer of acoustic and electronic jazz and R&B. A former child piano prodigy, Hancock now divides his time between performing and producing music, as well as maintaining his program to increase the spread of technology: the Rhythm of Life Foundation. Berklee Performance Center, 7 p.m., Tickets $29.50-35.50. (JW)

mon, nov 3

MUSIC | Electric Six, Junior Senior

Electric Six is an eclectic sextet featuring not only a bass player, two guitarists, a drummer, synthesizer and a singer, but also a cowbell and dancing. Junior Senior, a duo from Denmark, are unique for their differences: one small man, one tall man, one gay man, one straight. The Middle East, 8 p.m. (JW)

READINGS | H.W. Brands