The Amazing Kreskin, Crafty Groove, and Open Skate Party

Well the weather outside is...pretty mild actually, although other parts of New England are finally getting snow. Whether you're hoping to get outside or just find someplace warm and entertaining in the next week, has chosen a few options from upcoming events.

The skating rink on Parade Plaza is hopping, with a number of open skates and other special gatherings. sponsors an open skate tonight from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., with free admission and skate rental for high school students, and another one from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday for middle school students. New London Main Street holds their own celebration of the rink with an Open Skate Community Party from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. Finally, the senior class holds a graduation party fundraiser at the rink from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Sunday; admission is $5.

There are a couple of performances on stage, including the final days to check out 's performance of Little Women at the . This has shows tonight and Thursday at 7 p.m. as well as Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for children and seniors for the weekday shows and $35 and $30 for the weekend shows. The welcomes for a 3 p.m. performance showcasing the talents of this mentalist. The show is preceded by a psychic fair at 1:30 p.m.; tickets are $22 to $45.

If you're looking for music, debuts their "Crafty Groove" get-together. Head down to the shop from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday to work on a project, get some input and assistance, and listen to live music; admission is $5. continues their , with live performers accompanying the vendors in the store. And you can always catch a jazz performance from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at on Mondays.

No art openings this week, but there's still plenty to see in the city's galleries and New London Main Street has singled out a few exhibits for special mention. has "Black & White with a Dash of Color," a wide array of landscapes, figures, and local scenes on display until Feb. 25. 's , featuring works by high school students in New London and Waterford, runs through Jan. 21. Finally, 's current display focuses on artists who have given back to the community.

Other events happening this week:

• Community Knit, 10 a.m. on Thursday at the
• El Soul Poetry Open Mic, 8 p.m. on Thursday at Bean and Leaf
• Open game play, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday at