Sometimes, a day or night out can be the best holiday gift, whether it’s for a loved one, the kids, or yourself. And in a city as rich in performing arts as Boston, you don’t have to look far for that perfect event. Here’s a handful of suggestions to make your holidays happy.
A Charlie Brown Christmas
Boston Children’s Theatre through December 18
Last December, I took my kids to the Boston Children’s Theatre’s production of The Velveteen Rabbit. As with every production we’ve seen at the BCT, the actors (and puppeteers!) were incredibly talented, the set was transformative, and the show was just the right length. I fully expect their production of A Charlie Brown Christmas to live up to expectations and I look forward to watching their kids bring the Peanuts gang to life. Bonus: following the performance, the BCT Show Choir brings the holiday cheer!
Holiday Pops
Symphony Hall through December 24
The Holiday Pops is, hands down, my favorite holiday tradition. We started bringing the kids about three years ago, and since then, it just doesn’t feel like the holiday season until I’ve set foot in Symphony Hall. We always attend the Kid’s Matinees, but there are plenty of shows throughout December at a variety of times and ticket prices to tailor your Holiday Pops experience to you and yours. The Boston Pops do so much so well, and the Holiday Pops is no exception.
The Nutcracker
Boston Opera House through December 31
The quintessential performing arts experience during the holiday season in Boston. I had the pleasure of speaking with Boston Ballet soloist Sabi Varga last year about the production, which features a new lighting design from Finnish lighting and set designer Mikki Kunttu. Sabi also spoke about performing in the Nutcracker for over a decade, and how it’s such a wonderful holiday tradition in Boston. Make it part of your tradition this year.
The Christmas Revels
Sanders Theatre through December 27
The Christmas Revels might be the Boston area’s best kept holiday secret. Each year, the program changes and we’re transported to a new time and place. This year, An Acadian-Cajun Celebration of the Winter Solstice follows French immigrants from the Canadian border down to the Louisiana Bayou, singing and dancing all the way. And speaking of song, bring your best signing voice, because at the Christmas Revels, you’ll be invited to stand up at your seat and join the Chorus!
Disney On Ice
Agganis Arena December 23 through January 1
Hanukkah and Christmas have come and gone. And the holiday break drags on and on and on. Thank goodness for Disney On Ice. This year’s theme is Dare To Dream, and if it’s anything like last years, your kids are going to be just as entertained as mine were. It’s the perfect way to break up vacation week, so grab your tickets today, wrap ’em up, and toss ’em under the Christmas tree. Or maybe stash them on that high shelf in the closet. You can’t be too safe during the holidays.
And remember: ArtsBoston has deals for some of these and lots of other events in and around Boston throughout the holiday season, courtesy of The Mayor’s Holiday Special. Enjoy the deals…and the shows!
