L.A. theater openings, Dec. 29-Jan. 5: ‘Abe Lincoln’s Piano’ debuts

Brian Childers steps into the shoes of a legendary song-and-dance man, a new theater company steps up to the plate with the baseball-themed “Take Me Out,” and Hershey Felder steps back in time to 19th-century America in a new show at the Geffen.

An Evening With Danny Kaye Brian Childers portrays the actor-singer-dancer-comedian in this musical revue; magician-comic Bart Rockett opens the show. El Portal Theatre, 5269 Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood. Tue., 4 and 9 p.m. $55-$95. (818) 508-4200.

One Day Play Full-length play created in 24 hours from conception to performance; New Year’s Eve celebration follows second show. Eclectic Company Theatre, 5312 Laurel Canyon Blvd., Valley Village. Tue., 8 and 10 p.m. $15, $20. (818) 508-3003.

Why I Died, a Comedy! Return of Katie Rubin’s solo show about creativity and spirituality. Atwater Village Theatre, 3269 Casitas Ave., L.A. Fri.-Sat., 8 p.m.; ends Feb. 27. $20. (510) 689-8025.

PHOTOS: Art by Banksy

Hershey Felder in Abe Lincoln’s Piano Felder explores 19th-century American art, history and culture in this world premiere inspired by the songs of Stephen Foster. Gil Cates Theater at the Geffen Playhouse, 10886 Le Conte Ave., Westwood. Sat., 8 p.m.; next Sun., 2 and 7 p.m.; ends Jan. 13. $35-$75. (310) 208-5454.

Take Me Out Plus One Productions Los Angeles presents Richard Greenberg’s Tony-winning drama about a gay baseball player for its inaugural production; no one under 18 admitted. Flight Theatre at the Complex, 6476 Santa Monica Blvd., Hollywood. Sat., 8 p.m.; next Sun., 2 and 7 p.m.; ends Feb. 2. $10-$20. (424) 333-2117.

Human Identity L.A. premiere of writer-performer Christopher Vened’s solo show mixing mime and spoken word. The Lounge Theatre, 6201 Santa Monica Blvd., L.A. Next Sun., 7 p.m.; ends Feb. 9. $20, $25. (323) 960-5773.