The classic production of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular is a show kids of all ages will enjoy.
It is truly magical to see a show in NYC, especially a holiday show, but it also a limited-time opportunity. We have put together an extensive list of holiday theatre including the classics like the beloved Radio City Christmas Spectacular and various productions of the Nutcracker. This year, there are also some new productions of A Christmas Carol and fun puppet shows for younger children. We hope this guide helps you make some great selections this holiday season. Note: We will be adding as we learn of more shows in the area.
BROADWAY
November 11th – January 2nd 2012
Radio City Christmas Spectacular
This show is quite simply dazzling complete with gorgeous trees, ornamental chandeliers and the friendliest staff you have ever met. The Rockettes are incredible to watch as they dance and move their magical gams. The costumes are also amazing as well as the festive music. This show also features an amazing digital backdrop where they switch from grand manor to the streets of New York City. Karen’s son, Birch, (who saw the show last year) hasn’t stopped talking about the bus moving through the (digital) streets of New York. He thought we were traveling too. And we were in a way: we were totally entertained. Yes, the show is somewhat nostalgic and sentimental, and a bit kitschy at times, but it is rich in entertainment, excellent choreography (I always love that Tin Solider piece) and thrill. Details: Show times are at 11am, 2pm, 5:00pm, 7:30pm and 8:00pm (depending on the day). Tickets range from $45 (non-peak – third mezz) to $110 (peak – orchestra). For additional information or to purchase tickets, call (888) 858- 0007 or visit: http://www.radiocitychristmas.com/
December 7th – December 18th, 2011
Annual Irish Arts Christmas Concert Series
Presented by the Irish Arts Center, this Annual Christmas Concert features eclectic mix of tunes ranging from the traditional to the contemporary as well as holiday favorites. Details: Showtimes are Wednesday – Sunday at 8:00pm, Saturday at 2:00pm and 8:00pm and Sunday at 3:00 pm and 8:00 pm. The Donaghy Theatre at the Irish Arts Center is located at 553 West 51st Street, between 10th and 11th Avenues. Tickets are $50 general / $40 members. Tickets are available through SmartTix at (212) 868-4444 or www.smarttix.com
CHRISTMAS CAROL’S
December 1st – December 24th 2011
A Christmas Carol,” as told by Charles Dickens (himself)
Based on the Dickens’ own material from his historic reading tours throughout the US, this classic tale is given new life with physical comedy, festive magic through Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey. Presented at the Canal Park Playhouse, this play is designed for kids 7 and up. Details: The regular ticket price is $18. A Pre Fixe brunch is available for an additional $6.95 in advance or $8.95 at the door. Shows are held at 12:00pm, 2:00pm and 7:00pm. Canal Park Playhouse, 508 Canal Street, New York, United States For tickets or more information, call OvationTix on 1-866-811-4111 or visit www.canalparkplayhouse.com.
November 12th – December 24th, 2011
Manhattan Children’s Theatre presents A Christmas Carol
Based on the classic holiday tale, this version of A Christmas Carol features traditional and original music as audience members see as Scrooge through his past, present and future. Details: Shows are on Saturdays and Sundays at 12:00 & 2:00pm. There is also a special performance on Dec 23, 2011 at 12:00 & 2:00pm. Tickets are $18 for adults, $16 for kids; $20 at the door. Manhattan Children’s Theatre, 380 Broadway, fourth floor, Broadway and White, NYC. For reservations please call (212) 352-3101 or visit www.mctny.org
COMEDY SHOWS
December 17th and 18th at 3PM & 6PM both days
ADULT SHOW (PG): 9PM on Saturday the 17th
Superheroes Who Are Super Holiday Edition
This unique family-friendly comic-book themed comedy show will be comic book readings alive for kids of all ages. This will include three teams featuring Spider -Man, The Human Torch, Electro, Doctor Leonard Samson, Captain America, The Hulk, and Wolverine. Details: Brooklyn Lyceum, 227 4th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11215, Corner of President Street. For additional information, please click here.
THE NUTCRACKERS
November 25th – December 31st, 2011
George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker
A child receives a nutcracker as a Christmas gift—which turns out to be magical—in this iconic ballet performed by the New York City Ballet. The nutcracker leads Clara into adventures that include a mouse king, toy soldiers, a land of sweets and waltzing snowflakes. Set to a classic score by Tchaikovsky, the ballet debuted in 1954 and has been a holiday tradition ever since. Details: Show times for The Nutcracker are at 1pm, 2pm, 5pm or 8pm – depending on the day. Tickets range from $55-$135. The Nutcracker is playing at Lincoln Center Plaza, David H. Koch Theater (63rd Street and Columbus Avenue), New York, NY 10023. For additional information, please call (212) 870-5570 or click here.
November 26th –December 4th, 2011
Nutcracker in the Lower: Urban Ballet Theater
Produced by the Abrons Arts Center, the Nutcracker in the Lower features Krumping rats and popping soldiers, crooked hats, and the Nutcracker ballet, re-imagined by the Urban Ballet Theater. Hosting for its tenth consecutive year, this lower Manhattan production has become a cultural tradition that is as diverse as it is relevant. The play stays true to Tchaikovsky’s original score that remains largely intact throughout the ballet with baselines of hip-hop and the flamenco. Details: Show times for the Nutcracker in the Lower are: Tuesday-Friday at 7:30 pm, Saturday at 3 pm and 7:30 pm and Sunday at 3:00 pm. Tickets are $20 each or $25-$500 for the gala. The Abrons Arts Center is located at 466 Grand Street (at Pitt Street), New York, NY 10002. For additional information, please call (212) 598-0400 or click here.
November 29, 2011
New York Theatre Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Presented by the World Financial Center, this new rendition of The Nutcracker was crafted by Keith Michael. The production is an hour-long show that ends with the Winter Garden lighting celebration featuring the beautiful glass atrium is illuminated with 100,000 brilliant lights. Details: Tickets are Free. Show times for The Nutcracker are 12:30pm and 6pm (Holiday Lighting at 6pm). The Nutcracker will be held at 220 Vesey Street (between West Street and North End Avenue), New York, NY 10281. For additional information, please call (212) 945-0505 or click here.
December 2nd – December 17th, 2011
Los Nutcrackers
Los Nutcrackers: A Christmas Carajo is a Latino queer comedic Christmas play, written by Charles Rice-Gonzalez and directed by the award-winning Jorge Merced. Returning to BAAD!’s stage for the seventh triumphant year, the play interweaves two holiday classics: The Nutcracker and A Christmas Carol. Details: Show times for “Los Nutcrackers” are Friday, December 2; Saturday, December 3; Thursday, December 8; Friday, December 9; Saturday, December 10; Thursday, December 15; Friday, December 16 and Saturday, December 17. Tickets are $20 for shows on Thursdays and $25 for shows on Fridays and Saturdays with discounts for seniors, groups and Bronx residents offered for all shows, plus special online discounts. The Bronx Academy of Arts and Dance is located at 841 Barretto Street, 2nd floor (between Garrison and Lafayette Avenues) Bronx, NY 10474. To purchase tickets visit “BrownPaperTickets” or call the 24/7 Ticket Hotline: 1-800-838-3006.
December 2nd, 2011
Meet the Artists – The New York City Ballet
A 45-minute pre-Nutcracker performance program for families with children four and older. New York City ballet dancers, musicians, and teaching artists will get your body moving and inspire your imagination! Join us as we investigate the story, music, movement, and themes of the cherished holiday classic, The Nutcracker. Details: The session starts at 11am sharp. The David Rubenstein Atrium at Lincoln Center is located at Broadway (between 62nd and 63rd Streets), New York, NY 10023. For additional information, please click here.
December 8th – December 11th, 2011
The Yorkville Nutcracker
Set in 1895, The Yorkville Nutcracker takes the audience on an action-packed tour of Old New York’s most beloved landmarks, including a holiday party at Gracie Mansion, dancing at the Crystal Palace in the New York Botanical Garden, and skating in Central Park. Appropriate for all ages. Details: Show times are Thursday, December 8, 2011 at 7:00PM; Friday, December 9, 2011 at 7:00PM; Saturday, December 10, 2011 at 2:00PM & 7:00PM and Sunday, December 11, 2011 at 12:00PM & 5:00PM. Tickets: $85, $60, $45. The Sylvia and Danny Kaye Playhouse – Hunter College is located at East 68th Street (between Park and Lexington Avenues), New York, NY 10021. For additional information, please call: (212) 772-4448 or visit: http://kayeplayhouse.hunter.cuny.edu/
December 3rd, 2011
The Nutcracker at The Symphony Space
The classic Christmas tale of a child’s dream brought to life features the young, talented dancers from the Valentina Kozlova’s Dance Conservatory. Details: Show times for The Nutcracker are at 5pm. Tickets are $20/children and seniors, $30/adults. Symphony Space is located at 2537 Broadway (at 95th Street), New York, NY 10025. For additional information, please call (212) 864-5400 or visit: http://www.symphonyspace.org/.
December 10th, 2011
Nutcracker performance by Brighton Ballet Theater
Held at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum, this performance of The Nutcracker features dancers from the School of Russian American Ballet and special surprise guests. This holiday tradition will also include Spanish, Russian, Arabian, French, Chinese and African dances along with a classic Sugar Plum Fairies variation. Details: All Ages and show times are 5:00pm. Tickets are $30 $25, $20 $15; Children & Senior* $15 (Children’s tickets: 12 and under; Senior Citizens tickets: 65 and over) Performance will be held at the Leon M. Goldstein Performing Arts Center, Kingsborough Community College, 2001 Oriental Blvd, Brooklyn, NY 11235. For additional information, please visit: www.brightonballet.org
December 11th 2011
The Colonial Nutcracker
An annual holiday favorite at Brooklyn Center, Dance Theatre in Westchester performs an abridged, narrated version of Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet set in wintry colonial Yorktown, complete with a red-coated mouse army and an enchanted nutcracker prince. Recommended for ages four and older. Details: Show times are at 2 pm. Tickets are $7.00. Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts, Whitman Theater is located at 2900 Campus Road (at Flatbush Avenue and Nostrand Avenues), Brooklyn, NY 11210. For additional information, please call (718) 951-4500 or click here.
December 14-31, 2011
American Ballet Theatre Presents The Nutcracker
With a cast of over 100 performers, American Ballet Theatre’s world premiere of Alexei Ratmansky’s Nutcracker features the classic Tchaikovsky score and sets and costumes by Richard Hudson (who won a Tony Award for his set designs for The Lion King). ABT recommends that children should be at least four years old to attend The Nutcracker. Details: Show times for The Nutcracker are: Dec 14—16 at 7pm; Dec 17 at 2pm & 7pm; Dec 18 at 1pm and 6pm; Dec 20 at 7pm; Dec 21 at 2pm & 7pm; Dec 22 at 7pm; Dec 23 at 2pm & 7pm; Dec 24 at 2pm; Dec 26—27 at 7pm; Dec 28 at 2pm & 7pm; Dec 29 at 7pm; Dec 30 at 2pm & 7pm and Dec 31 at 2pm. Prices range from $25—120. The Brooklyn Academy of Arts is located at: BAM Gilman Opera House 30 Lafayette Avenue (between St. Felix Street and Ashland Place), Brooklyn, NY 11217. For additional information, call BAM for tickets (718) 636-4100 or order online at abt.org or bam.org.
December 17th 2011
The Nutcracker
In this classic ballet story with music by Tchaikovsky, the little girl Clara travels into a magical world at Christmas time. Her godfather, the mystical clock maker Herr Drosselmeyer, is the one responsible for sending Clara on this exotic trip across time with the Nutcracker Prince. Get an injection of holiday cheer, as Clara, Old Drosselmeyer and the Nutcracker Prince take a frolicking musical journey that happens only once a year.
Details: Show times are at 3 pm. Tickets are $12.00 general. Reserved seating. LaGuardia Performing Arts Center 31-10 Thomson Avenue, (between 31st and Van Dam Streets) Long Island City, NY 11101. For additional information, please call (718) 482-5151 or visit: http://www.lagcc.cuny.edu/lpac/
December 18th, 2011
The Nutcracker: Brighton Ballet Theatre Company
The perfect introduction to the perennial holiday favorite, The Nutcracker is back by popular demand. Brighton Ballet’s version features dazzling Russian-trained dancers, exquisite costumes and the beloved music by Tchaikovsky—has been created and priced especially for family audiences. Details: Show times are at 3:00pm. Tietickets are $12/children, $18/adults. The Colden Auditorium is located at Queens College 65-30 Kissena Boulevard (corner Horace Harding and Kissena Boulevards), Flushing, NY 11367. For additional information, please call (718) 544-2996 or visit: http://www.kupferbergcenter.org/
December 21st– December 23rd, 2011
David Parker and The Bang Group present Nut/Cracked
David Parker and The Bang Group’s Nut/Cracked is the contemporary dance world’s beloved version of The Nutcracker. With an enterprising mix of tap, ballet, contemporary, disco and even toe tap, Parker conjures a comic, subversive neo-vaudeville tinged with whimsy. Danced to novelty and popular arrangements of the score as well as the traditional orchestral suite, Nut/Cracked premiered at Dance Theater Workshop in 2004 and has been touring ever since. Details: Show times are Dec 21 — 23 at 7:30pm, Dec 23 at 2pm. $24 Advance Purchase / $30 Day of Performance. There is a pre-show talk on Dec 21 at 6:30pm with Maura Donahue and a post-show talk on Dec 23 with Leigh Witchel. The Dance Theater Workshop is located at 219 West 19th Street (between Seventh and Eighth Avenues), New York, NY 10011. For additional information, please call (212) 691-6500 or click here.
MUSIC PLAYS
November 19th – January 2nd, 2012
Angelina Ballerina: The Very Holiday Musical
Angelina and her friends are back and planning a holiday dance pageant. True to Angelina form, this lively show also features dancing, singing and festivities, this heart-warming musical is perfect for everyone’s holiday season! Details: The musical is held on Saturdays at Sundays at 11am and 1pm with holiday shows on Nov. 25, Dec. 26, 27, 28 & 29 at 11am and 1pm. Tickets are $29.50 per person. The Vital Theater is located at 2162 Broadway, 4th Floor, at 76th Street, New York, NY. For additional information, please click here.
December 10, 11, 17, 18 at 4PM
Twas the Night Before Christmas
The 45-minute show will involve three readers, each reciting four stanzas from the classic poem, and following with a beautiful Brooklyn Christmas tale from their own storied lives. Coupled with live music,costumes and personal photos, it’s sure to be a holiday delight. A new spin on a story for all ages, the Lyceum is breathing Brooklyn into the classic pages.
Details: Brooklyn Lyceum 227 4th Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11215 (Corner of President Street
R Train to Union Street) Tickets: $10 single ticket, $30 four pack, $5 at the door(first weekend) with the purchase of a $20 certificate goods towards purchase the following weekend at the Lyceum Holiday Marketplace. You can buy tickets here.
December 3-18th at 11 am
The Flying Latke
This tale of Chanukah celebrations, holiday dysfunction and the miracle of a certain soaring potato pancake should be a fun family event. Adapted by Yorinks from his classic children’s book, The Flying Latke tells the story of young Danny Silverstein and his “meshugge” family as they celebrate the first night of Chanukah. Their holiday food fight sends a latke sailing out the window and over the city, causing a UFO frenzy that traps the Silversteins in their home with their home with their extended family visiting and nothing but latkes to eat. Details: This limited engagement runs Saturday & Sunday mornings only December 3 through 18 Downstairs @ The Flea. Tickets are $12 per person. The Flying Latke runs December 3, 4, 10, 11, 17 & 18th at 11am. Check www.theflea.org for the full performance schedule. The Flea is located at 41 White Street between Church and Broadway, three blocks south of Canal, close to the A/C/E, N/R/Q, 6, J/M/Z and 1 subway lines. Tickets are $12 and are available at the door beginning 1 hour prior to each performance.
December 4th, 2011
A Rockin’ Holiday Show: Little Rock-its By Frolic! Featuring Tim Kubart And Friends
Little Rock features a new wave in children’s music that will be celebrated with a rocking holiday music concert. Details: The show is at 5:00pm and tickets are $5 – $10 advance / $10 – $15 day of show. Music Hall of Williamsburg, 66 North 6th St (between Kent and Wythe Aves). For additional information, please click here.
December 9th – December 17th, 2011
The Charlie Brown Christmas- LIVE at the Lyceum
We love the soundtrack with the Vince Guaraldi music that is on this classic animated film- so we am really excited that this theater production will have a live accompanying jazz trio! In this faithful presentation, Pig Brooch Inc. will perform verbatim the Charlie Brown Christmas Special. This performance was lauded last winter as one of the favorites of kids and families all over Brooklyn. Details: Show times are at 2:00pm or 8:00pm – depending on the day. All tickets are $10 each or $30 for a Four Pack. The Brooklyn Lyceum is located at 227 4th Avenue in Park Slope. For additional information, please call (718) 857- 4816.
December 17th, 2011
Amahl and the Night Visitors, Presented by The Little Orchestra Society
One of New York’s most anticipated holiday events, this glittering presentation will enchant audiences of all ages. An entirely new production of Gian Carlo Menotti’s musical masterpiece about universal love and generosity, staged by John Sheehan, highlights the colorful excitement of the Three Kings Day celebration important in Latin American cultures throughout the world. This heartwarming opera speaks to children and adults of all backgrounds with its spirit of hope, joy and human kindness − a perfect holiday treat for the entire family. Details: Tickets are $15.00, $20.00, $35.00 and $45.00. Show times are at 11:00am and 1:00pm. Call The Little Orchestra Society at 212-971-9500 or go to http://www.littleorchestra.org to buy single tickets and/or subscriptions and Avery Fisher Hall Box Office at 212-721-6500 for tickets. Performance is at: Avery Fisher Hall, Lincoln Center 10 Lincoln Center Plaza, at 65th Street, New York City.
December 18th, 2011
Latkes and Applesauce with the Poppy Seed Players
The Kaufman Center hosts the beloved musical troupe the Poppy Seed Players, who will perform musical plays for kids about Jewish culture. Now Currently in their 22nd season, families will enjoy Latkes & Applesauce and along with the Kaufman Kids, a troupe of young performers from Kaufman Center’s Lucy Moses School and Special Music School. Details: Show is at 11:00am. All tickets are $20.00. Merkin Concert Hall, 129 West 67th Street (between Broadway and Amsterdam). For additional information, please click here.
December 2nd – 18th, 2011
Seven In One Blow, or The Brave Little Kid
The show is an adaptation of the classic fairy tale by The Brothers Grimm, appealing to kids and adults alike. The audience follows the hero’s journey through the snow where he meets a chuckle-worthy cast of characters, including Princess Fartina, the Month of December, and an angry Pea. Parent reviews on this have been extremely positive. Details: Tickets are $6 for Kids, Students & Seniors and $12 Adults. Fridays 7pm, Saturdays & Sundays 2pm and Tuesday, Dec. 20 at 7pm. Axis Theatre is located at One Sheridan Square (between West Fourth and Washington). For information and reservations, please call 212 807-9300. They are also available online
PUPPET SHOWS
November 14th – December 30th, 2011
The Three Bears Holiday Bash
The Three Bears Holiday Bash is a variety show that celebrates the holiday season with song, dance, and puppetry. This production quickly becomes a comedy of errors when Baby Bear invites Santa to star in Mama and Papa Bears’ annual holiday show. Drawing from the stories of Hanukkah, the Night Before Christmas, and Kwanzaa, The Three Bears Holiday Bash includes all those celebrating the holidays. Details: Show times for The Three Bears Holiday Bash are: Mondays – Fridays: 10:30 a.m. and noon; Wednesdays: 10:30 a.m., noon, and 2:00 pm; Saturdays & Sundays: 1:00 p.m; November 25: 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m; December 27 – 30: 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. There are no performances on Nov. 4, Dec. 4, 24, 25, 26, 31. Tickets are $5/for children under 13 and $8/adults. The Cottage is located in Central Park at 81st Street and Central Park West, just south of the Delacorte Theater. For additional information, please click here.
Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays
November 25th through December 24, 2011
Continuous shows from 9:30 am to 8:00 pm
Puppet Show: A Miracle on 34th Street
While you’re at Macy’s, be sure to stop by the Puppet Theater on the 8th floor to see the holiday puppet classic A Miracle on 34th Street – a 30-minute musical version of the holiday classic as told by Marionettes from Puppetworks (featuring the voices of Brian Stokes Mitchell and Victoria Clark). The show is $5 per person (only in person). Details: Take the Express Elevator at 35th & Broadway to the 8th floor. For more information, call (212) 494-1917. For additional information, please click here.
December 15th-18th, 2011 at 7:30pm
The Knickerbocker Suite
Featuring New York City landmarks like the The Statue of Liberty, The Metropolitan Museum of Art and NY sports teams, The Knickerbocker Suite also includes tales from The Nutcracker with shadow puppetry. Details: Manhattan Movement & Arts Center, 248 W. 60th Street, NYC (between Amsterdam and West End Avenues). Tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for students. Tickets are available by visiting manhattanmovement.com/calendar.
December 11th, 2011
A Christmas Carol by the Puppet People
Warm your hearts with the puppet version of Charles Dickens’ holiday classic. This also includes beautiful handcrafted marionettes, shadow puppets, masks, costumes, vivid sets, a professional soundtrack that includes many holiday favorites, a giant 9-foot parade puppet. Details: Performance Dates: Sunday December 11th at 3PM, 5PM & 7PM. Brooklyn Lyceum is located at 227 4th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY. Tickets are $10 (online or at the door); $30 for a four pack (online only) and $5 with a proof of purchase of a $20 gift certificate for the Lyceum Holiday Marketplace. For more information, please click here.
Tuesdays–Thursdays, November 29–December 29, and Mondays, December 19 & 26
The Little Engine That Could Puppet Show
The classic tale of The Little Engine That Could ™ is brought to life in an exciting presentation by New York City puppet master Ralph Lee. The whole family can join the fun to get the determined train over the mountain!
Details: The New York Botanical Garden Bronx River Parkway (Exit 7W) at Fordham Road
Bronx, New York. The hours are Tuesday – Sunday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Closed most Mondays.