Previews: Mathematical Mysteries at Harris Center and ‘Shen Yun’ at Sacramento Community Theatre

Some people find math incredibly daunting and mysterious. Not me—I was a mathlete for 6 years—but some people find it opaque. Mathematical Mysteries, an act from magician Danny Carmo, expands on that hazy impression by introducing elements of illusion into an engaging act aimed at children. The showman from Northern Ireland mixes the two worlds together and is designed to get hesitant learners interested in math by presenting it in an engaging light. Featuring such famous concepts as probability, fractions and magic squares, this show is a delight and may even tickle some brains. It’s also the show that was the one millionth Harris Center ticket was purchased on. Sun 1/13, 1pm & 3pm. $11.50-$18, Harris Center, 10 College Parkway in Folsom, harriscenter.net.

Participate in 5,000 years of tradition with a performance from Shen Yun, the theatrical dance and music experience brought to New York in 2006. The art form, exclusively performed outside of China, is built on the foundation of traditional Chinese dance. With music that has been blended with different cultures and stories that are as timeless as they are engaging, this show is brilliant and multifaceted. Considering the contemporary historical context of China erasing certain aspects of their culture, these performances are more than just art. They’re political commentary. Thu 2pm, Fri 7:30pm, Sat 2pm & 7:30pm. Through 1/12. $80-$200, Sacramento Community Center Theater, 1301 L Street, shenyun.com.