“Charlotte’s Web”: Wilbur the pig has a problem: How can he avoid becoming a pork chop?

His true friend Charlotte the spider offers the solution of impressing Farmer Zuckerman by spinning the words “Some Pig” in her web and turning Wilbur from a piece of bacon to a prize pig — and a keeper.

TheatreworksUSA’s production of “Charlotte’s Web,” based on E.B. White’s loving story, features a cast of mad-cap farm animals in its exploration of the topics of bravery, selfless love and friendship.

This one-hour musical is presented by Village Theatre Pied Piper. TheatreworksUSA, a New York-based nonprofit that specializes in children and family productions, began its national tour of “Charlotte’s Web” in the fall of 1993. Director Rob Barron rehearsed the six-member cast and the incidental music score was written by award-winning composer Jeffrey Lunden.

“Charlotte’s Web” performs at 2 and 4 p.m. Saturday at Everett Performing Arts Center, 2710 Wetmore Ave., Everett. Tickets are $12 to $14. Call 425-257-8600 or go to www.villagetheatre.org. Recommended for grades K-5 and their families.

“Holiday Stories”: Three classic Christmas stories come alive on one stage as Whidbey Island Center for the Arts presents three original adaptations of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!,” “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” and “A Child’s Christmas in Wales.”

Here’s a synopsis for each show:

“How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” is adapted and directed by Kristina Sutherland and tells Dr. Seuss’ story of the Grinch, whose heart was two sizes too small, and therefore he hates Whoville’s holiday celebrations and plans to steal all the presents to prevent Christmas from coming. To his amazement, Christmas comes anyway, and the Grinch discovers the true meaning of the holiday.

“‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” is adapted and directed by Ann Deacon and sets on stage the famous Clement C. Moore poem that was written in 1822.

“A Child’s Christmas in Wales” by Dylan Thomas and adapted and directed by Michael Barker is a lyrical journey to the magic and marvel of a special Christmas Eve when a grandfather shared heartwarming memories with his dearly loved grandson and winds up reliving his own cherished youth.

Prior to each of these holiday matinees, kids and families can visit the Elf’s Workshop to make holiday crafts and gifts. The workshop opens at 1 p.m. Saturday and will take place at 1 p.m. Sunday and at 1 p.m. Dec. 19 and 20 at WICA, 565 Camano Ave., Langley. Recommended for ages 5 to 12.

“Holiday Stories” kicks off at 7:30 tonight with “A Child’s Christmas in Wales” at WICA, 565 Camano Ave., Langley. Shows are at various times through Dec. 20. Tickets range from $10 to $12, with discounts available for families. Call 360-221-8268 or 800-638-7631 or go to www.WICAonline.com.

Theresa Goffredo: 425-339-3424; goffredo@heraldnet.com.