Parent’s night: ‘The Heiress’
Starring: Jessica Chastain, David Strathairn, Dan Stevens
Plot: Have you ever had to choose between your own desires and those of your parents? In this slowly unfolding psychological drama, a young woman is forced to do so in late-19th century New York City. Your upbringing will undoubtedly look better to you as the heiress slowly unspools under her father’s withering parentage and the manipulative vise of her inheritance. Through Feb. 10,
www.theheiressonbroadway.com

Kid’s night: ‘Cinderella’
Starring: Laura Osnes, Santino Fontana, Victoria Clark
Plot: Remember when you saw “Cinderella” on Broadway? No? Although it seems like you’ve seen it done before, this musical has only ever appeared on TV. At long last, the Rodgers & Hammerstein classic is hitting the big stage — and it’s the perfect show for all ages. Unlike some traditionalist family fare (ahem, “Annie“), here you can expect new twists on the updated and reimagined story. Opening Feb. 24, www.cinderellaonbroadway.com

Couple’s night: ‘The Performers’
Starring: Alicia Silverstone, Cheyenne Jackson, Henry Winkler
Plot: Feel like a superior pairing as you and your date watch two couples begin to question themselves and deteriorate in the best environment possible for that to happen: the Adult Film Awards. Don’t worry, it’s a romantic comedy; that means you can be pretty confident you’ll go home with some warm fuzzies to round out the ideal Broadway date night. Now open, www.theperformersonbroadway.com

Friend’s night: ‘Dead Accounts’
Starring: Katie Holmes, Norbert Leo Butz, Judy Greer
Plot: What brings friends together faster than griping about crazy family drama? At least when you get together to watch “Dead Accounts” — about a man who arrives home unannounced and shakes everyone up with his secrets and mysterious wads of cash — you can guiltlessly escape into someone else’s dysfunction without owing hours of amateur head-shrinking over pitchers of beer, followed by awkward hugs.
Opening: Nov. 29, www.deadaccountsonbroadway.com

Holiday shows

‘The Radio City Christmas Spectacular’: It’s a big year for the line of ladies with the long legs as the Rockettes celebrate their 85th anniversary at Radio City Music Hall. This year highlights the show’s most beloved numbers, plus a few new surprises. Expect high energy, nostalgia and stamina as these dancers take Christmas and kick it up a notch. Through Dec. 30, www.radiocity.com

‘A Christmas Story The Musical’: Yes, it’s just like the movie you know and, well, affectionately tolerate. If seeing it on loop Christmas Day isn’t enough, now you can see it live — and as a musical. As long as there’s a song about a sexy leg lamp, we’re happy.  
Monday through Dec. 30, www.achristmasstorythe
musical.com

‘Elf The Musical’: You know Buddy — Buddy the Elf? Of course you do. His tale — of being an orphan who’s raised at the North Pole only to return to the human world as an adult in time to spread Christmas cheer — has quickly become a staple of the holiday season. Though it can come off as more sugary than 1,000 candy canes, its overall goodwill and willingness to laugh at itself makes up for the potential toothache. Through Jan. 6, www.elfmusical.com