Our Picks

Can't Miss

---

1. YO LA TENGO

[CONCERT] It's hard to believe that the Hoboken, N.J., indie rockers have been making music for more than two decades -- almost as long as "indie" has been a buzzword. The band's show at the Birchmere, a much more intimate venue than its fans are used to, is something of a celebration of that long career.

The mostly acoustic set will feature selections from YLT's entire catalogue as well as stories from the group members about their life as a band.

Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria. $25. 703-549-7500 or 703-573-7328.

2. SLEUTH

[MOVIE] In 1972, Michael Caine played a young Lothario lured to the home of his lover's husband for a deadly game of wits. In Kenneth Branagh's remake, Caine changes roles and takes on the part of the bitter husband, with Jude Law as his young, virile prey.

Opens Friday.

3. ROLAND MESNIER

[LITERATURE] The former White House executive pastry chef discusses his new book, "Roland Mesnier's Basic to Beautiful Cakes," and shows aspiring cooks how to use simple recipes to create desserts that can be dressed up for any occasion. Oh, and there's cake.

Thursday at 7 p.m. Olsson's, 2200-G Crystal Dr., Arlington. Free. 703-413-8121.

4. PAMINA DEVI: A CAMBODIAN MAGIC FLUTE

[ON STAGE] Sophiline Cheam Shapiro reimagines Mozart's "The Magic Flute," transporting the opera from imperial Vienna to Cambodia's Angkor region. Thirty-two ornately costumed dancers, musicians and singers chronicle the title character's journey as she transcends rivalries and seeks out a middle path to justice. In Khmer with English surtitles.