Throughout the centuries, Egyptian culture and monuments have continuously fascinated both academics and commoners. Smith College Museum of Art presents "Abandoned Beauty: A 19th-century Photographic Excursion through Egypt," a collection of 25 photographs compiled from travel albums that were sold in Egypt and throughout Europe in the late 19th century. The photographs contain scenes of daily life in Egypt, including views of the Nile River and the streets of Cairo. They were taken by various photographers, ranging from established artists such as Antonio Beato and Lékégian to lesser known photographers. The exhibition offers an incredible visual experience by providing visitors with a sense of scale of the stunning monuments. (10 a.m. to 4 p.m., now through July 8, Smith College Museum of Art. For details on admission fees visit http://www.smith.edu/artmuseum/general.)

Under the direction of Mallorie Chernin and Assistant Director Katie Vogele, the Amherst College Concert Choir will present its annual spring concert. The concert will feature Ralph Vaughan Williams' "Serenade to Music" with guest pianist Ludmilla Krasin. It will also showcase solos by members of the Concert Choir and pieces from composers such as Antonio Lotti, Johannes Brahms, Mathew Harris and Percy Hall. (8 p.m., Sat., Buckley Recital Hall. No admission charge.)

Poet and professor Olga Karman will read from her acclaimed memoir "Scatter My Ashes Over Havana." In her memoir, Karman concocts a moving narrative of personal and social history. She describes her emigration from her native Cuba, her struggle to find a new life in the United States and her return visit to Cuba after some 37 years. Her story is about immigration and the experience of coming to terms with oneself. (4:30 p.m., Fri., Pruyne Lecture Hall, Fayerweather Hall. No admission charge.)

Mt. Holyoke College is reviving the tradition of springtime Shakespeare in its outdoor amphitheater. Seat cushions will be provided to allow the public to enjoy a full-length performance of Shakespeare's classic comedy "Much Ado About Nothing." (2 p.m., Sat., Gettle Amphitheater, Mt. Holyoke College. No admission charge.)