Seattle

What’s happening the next few weeks:

* Seattle’s new Benaroya Hall, above, opens Sept. 12 with two weeks of galas, recitals, children’s and family concerts and tours. Some highlights: opening-night gala with Jessye Norman and the Seattle Symphony Sept. 12; recital with Kyung-Wha Chung Sept. 14; an evening with Chuck Mangione Sept. 15; a celebration with Yo-Yo Ma Sept. 18; a children’s day Sept. 19 with an evening performance by Gladys Knight; community arts celebration Sept. 20. Benaroya Hall, bounded by 2nd and 3rd avenues and University and Union streets, downtown. (206) 215-4747.

* At the Seattle Art Museum this fall: “Documents Northwest: The PONCHO Series Testimonies: Work by Ross Palmer Beecher and Barbara Thomas,” Today-Jan. 24, presents works by two mid-career Seattle artists known for their highly imaginative, symbol-laden imagery. “Cindy Sherman: Allegories,” Aug. 27-Jan. 24, presents a variety of Sherman’s works from the last three decades. “Egypt: Gift of the Nile: Ancient Egyptian Art and Architecture from the University of Pennsylvania Museum,” Oct. 15-Jan. 10, is a collection of ancient objects excavated from the tombs and caverns of Egypt and Nubia. 100 University St. (206) 654-3100.

* At the Bathhouse Theatre Sept. 10-Oct. 11, Samuel Beckett’s “Endgame.” 7312 West Green Lake Drive North. (206) 524-9108.

* The Pacific Northwest Ballet presents George Balanchine’s “Carmina Burana and Serenade,” Sept. 24-26 and 30, Oct. 1-3. Seattle Center Opera House, Mercer Street and 3rd Avenue North. (206) 292-ARTS.