VISUALS | The Art of Darkness

This group exhibition centers on four photographers whose work exploits environmental light in scenes of darkness, using long exposures and photosensitive paper, among other strategies. Featured artists include Nicolas Bernier, Lance Kemig, Eva Hidvegi Demjem and Paul Weiner. Their intimate knowledge of light and the way it paints pictures over time is central to photography, and the collected works showcase a side to the medium that is often overlooked. Runs through October 5. Free. Zeitgeist Gallery, 1535 Cambridge St., Inman Square. (RJK)

VISUALS | Splat Boom Pow!

Subtitled The Influence of Cartoons in Contempary Art, this exhibit at the Boston Institute for Contemporary Art (ICA) examines three generations of popular contemporary artists who have used the images and techniques of cartoons to explore challenging contemporary issues. 2003 ICA Artist Prize winner Douglas R. Weathersby creates site-specific installations that use dust and detritus to meditate on the creative potential of waste and cleanliness, order and disorder. Runs through January 4. $5 students, free after 5 p.m. on Thursday. Boston ICA, 955 Boylston Street. (TR)

MUSIC | Dresden Dolls

This local duo (Amanda Palmer, piano and voice; Brian Viglione, drums), sometimes described for its theatric, piano-driven songs as “punk cabaret,” celebrates the release of its new record. Some may also recognize Palmer from her stint as the whitewashed statue/street performer in the Square, which helped earn her the title “Best Indie Art Ringleader” from the Boston Pheonix in 2002. 8 p.m. $12; 18+. Paradise Rock Club, 967-969 Commonwealth Ave. (TR)

MUSIC | Nada Surf

The NYC alt-rock trio is best known for its 1996 single “Popular,” whose video played on MTV. Weezer-influenced Ozma also appear. 8 p.m. $10 advance, $12 door; 18+. The Middle East Downstairs, 472 Massachusetts Ave. (SLS)

MUSIC | Musical Madder

Andrew Wang (violin) and Jessica Kinloch (piano) of the Isengard Duo, along with Sarah Carter (cello), present diverse and soulful chamber music, including works by Beethoven, Arensky, and Part. All three musicians are winners of major music competitions, and the formal evening concert should be enthralling. 7 p.m. $7 students, $12 general. Lowell Lecture Hall. (TR)

THEATRE | Antony and Cleoparta

A play full of classic Shakespeare elements, passionate love triangles, jealous women and tragic endings spell out a night on the town. The story of Cleopatra, one of history’s most alluring and powerful women, and Marc Anthony, who is forced to step into the shoes of Caesar, are played by local stars Anne Gottlieb and Robert Pemberton. Runs through October 12. Thursdays at 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., and Sunday at 3 p.m. $20 students. The Tremont Theatre, 276 Tremont St. (MAM)

THEATRE | Lady With A Lapdog

At Yalta, a man has an affair with a young, married woman (the “lady with a lapdog”). After the two return to their homes, the man becomes unable to forget his mistress. The play—based on a story by Anton Chekov—centers on the life-changing trip he takes to see her again. Writer/director Kama Ginkas makes his American debut. Through October 11. 8 p.m. $47-69, $12 for students on day of show. American Repertory Theater, 64 Brattle St. (TR)

sun, sept 28

MUSIC | Boston Conservatory Orchestra