Algerian-born Jean Jacques Beltramo uses photography to transform the essentials of urban life into abstract works of art. Muse Gallery, G/F, 40 Ship St, Wan Chai. Inquiries: 2866 0106. Ends today

Napoleon Bonaparte: Emperor And Man

The discovery of Saddam Hussein's gaudy art leanings after coalition forces seized his palaces and homes gave a rare psychological insight into the deposed leader's tastes. Maidens, for example, don't straddle snakes in the beautiful works that decorated Napoleon's home, La Malmaison. This exhibition explores the trends of the era. Special Exhibition Gallery, Hong Kong Museum of History. $20, $14, $10. Inquiries: 2724 9042. Opens Apr 30

Youri Leroux

The French artist explores eroticism, literature and freedom. Chouinard Gallery, 1 Prince's Terrace, Mid-Levels. Tel: 2858 5072

Focus On Infinity - Pinhole Photography By Wheeler Matthews

Armed with a simple, hand-made wooden pinhole camera, Marion Wheeler and Amber Matthews travelled through Australia, Cambodia, China, Hawaii, Malaysia, Myanmar, Portugal, Singapore and Thailand. The results are spectacular. E&J Gallo Gallery, Fringe Club, 2 Lower Albert Rd, Central. Inquiries: 2521 7251. Until Apr 30

Chu Hing-wah - My Third Page: Dream And Reality

With works that occasionally resemble subconscious glimpses through half-shut eyes, this exhibition raises a variety of talking points, such as how we determine what is - and is not - real. Mon-Fri, 10am-6.30pm; Sat, 10am-6pm. Hanart TZ Gallery, 2/F, Henley Building, 5 Queen's Rd, Central. Tel: 2526 9019. Until Apr 30

Performing Arts

The Enigma Of Desire - Dali Vs Gala

This collaboration between dancers Xing Liang and Mui Cheuk-yin explores the complex labyrinth of love and desire Dali inhabited. Tonight, 7.30pm and 9.30pm. Studio, Fringe Club, 2 Lower Albert Rd, Central. $180 ($150 members) HK Ticketing. Inquiries: 2511 6192

East Wing, West Wing - 2046: The Chief Executive Is Missing

Zuni Icosahedron and Edward Lam Dance Theatre present a political satire whose purpose is not merely to attack the government but to suggest Hong Kong people should take more responsibility in shaping their future. In Cantonese. Tonight, 8pm. Shouson Theatre, Arts Centre, Wan Chai. $160, $90 HK Ticketing. Inquiries: 3128 8288

Violinmania II - Li Chuanyun

Stepping in at the last minute after original artist Shlomo Mintz postponed his Asian tour, Li's presence more than compensates. Tomorrow, 8pm. City Hall Concert Hall, Central. $100-$220, Urbtix. Inquiries: 2734 9009

Scribblers Present: The Fate Of The Assassins

Night Scene

Tranquilisers

A welcome slice of Gallic cool as Noho presents 'the sounds of Paris' as spun by DJ Valium. Ladies drink for free all night. Tonight, 10pm-late. Area, 28 Gough St, Central. Free. Inquiries: 2542 3128

Brown Sugar

Let loose to the likes of Hot Hot Heat, the Rapture, Ravonettes, the Kills, the White Stripes and classics such as Stone Roses, the Charlatans, Nirvana and the Clash. Tonight, 10pm-late. Amnesia, 3/F Al Aqmar House, 30 Hollywood Rd, SoHo (opposite New York Fitness). Free (with free drinks 11pm-11.30pm). Inquiries: 9187 5494

We Are The Mods

Celebrating the official launch and 40th anniversary of mod-label Ben Sherman, DJs Tomoko Okamura, Simon Pang, Ewan and Bodhi combine to present a night of authentic mod capers spinning both mod and modernist tunes - basically anything with attitude. Tonight, 9pm. One-fifth, Starcrest, Star St, Wan Chai. Inquiries: 2520 2515

Extra-curricular

Carnival Dance Party

For kiddies of all ages, this afternoon party gives you the chance to take the little 'uns outdoors for a frolic in the fresh air. Featuring dancing, drumming and music videos. Today, 12pm. HK Visual Arts Centre, HK Park. $50. Inquiries: 6048 9809

Textile Society Of Hong Kong Talk: Kalinga Textiles By Eric Anderson

Anderson boasts one of the largest private collections in the world, consisting of more than 100 antique weaves. His Web site is the definitive Internet resource for northern Philippine tribal art. He shares his passion on Tue, 6.30pm. Helena May, 35 Garden Rd, Central. Free for the society's members and their guests, $100 for non-members (membership available at the door). Inquiries: 2301 2215 or cheungedith @hotmail.com

Writing Fiction And Getting It Published

For a complete listings service visit totallyhk.scmp.com.