The holiday season is well and truly upon us, and what better way to enjoy than by taking part in a holiday production? From popular performances to modern spins on classic tales, Calgary has a variety of productions for people of all ages. If you’re looking for an activity to do on the weekend or when the cold winter weather hits, these performances are a great way to enjoy the season with friends and family. Take a look at the holiday productions happening in the city this December:
1. The Nutcracker – Alberta Ballet
Dates: December 14 – 16 and 20 – 24
Times: 1:00 p.m., 6:00 p.m., and 7:00 p.m.
Location: Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium (1415 — 14th Avenue NW)
Tickets: Online here
A popular choice during the holiday season, the Alberta Ballet’s performance of the classic holiday tale The Nutcracker will be celebrating 10 years in 2018. Based on the original story by E. T. A. Hoffmann, the ballet follows the story of a child whose toy nutcracker comes to life and transports her to a magic kingdom. This performance is suitable for all ages but be sure to get your tickets before they are sold out!
2. Christmas Carol – Theatre Calgary
Dates: November 29 – December 23
Times: 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Location: Theatre Calgary (220 9th Ave SE)
Tickets: Online here or by calling 403-294-7447
Theatre Calgary’s popular production is back, but tickets are selling fast! The play tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge as he is taken through his Christmas past, present and future as he discovers his holiday spirit. Different performances are available in a relaxed and ASL interpreted performance. This year is also special is it is the 25th year that actor Stephen Hair has portrayed Scrooge in Theatre Calgary’s production.
3. Twas the Night Before Christmas – StoryBook Theatre
Dates: November 30 – December 22
Times: 3:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Location: Vertigo Studio Theatre (115 9 Ave SE)
Tickets: Online here
Forget what you already know about The Night Before Christmas – this musical is reimagined to follow the story of a family who gets stuck in a cabin over the holidays and get a visit from a special guest. This show is a great option for families with young children. A relaxed performance will also be held on December 15.
4. It’s A Wonderful Life – Lunchbox Theatre
Dates: November 26 – December 22
Times: 12:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
Location: 160 115 9 Avenue S.E.
Tickets: Online here
Lunchbox Theatre is performing their popular radio play of the popular 1940s film, It’s a Wonderful Life all month long. In this performance, George Bailey has hit rock bottom, but his guardian angel Clarence appears to show George just how much he has impacted the lives of people in his community. Lunchbox Theatre will also perform a relaxed version of the show on December 4.
5. The Nutcracker – Jeunesse Classique Ballet Society
Dates: December 7 – 9
Times: 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Location: University Theatre (230 University Ct NW)
Tickets: Online here or by calling 403-220-5313
The Nutcracker is a popular performance to attend during the holiday season. The Jeunesse Classique Ballet Society will be putting on their own production of the classic ballet in two parts. This performance will only be available from December 7 to 9 and features different ticket options for seniors and children. This performance will also follow the story of Clara and her adventures with the Nutcracker doll that comes to life.
6. A Traditional Christmas – Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
Dates: December 5, 7 and 8
Times: 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Locations: Shane Homes YMCA at Rocky Ridge (11300 Rocky Ridge Rd NW) and Grace Presbyterian Church (1009 15th Ave SW)
Tickets: Online here
Once again, the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra will be performing traditional holiday songs (including a selection of music from The Nutcracker) for audiences at the beginning of December. They will also be performing a show at the new Shane Homes YMCA at Rocky Ridge in addition to their traditional venue at the Grace Presbyterian Church.
7. Chrismoose Carol – Loose Moose Theatre Company
Dates: December 6 – 22
Times: 8:00 p.m.
Location: Loose Moose Theatre (1235 – 26th Ave. SE)
Tickets: Online here, by phone at 403-265-5682 or at the door
No spelling mistake here – the improve theatre company brings the holiday cheer to their production of a “Chrismoose Carol,” and exactly what the production will be about is a tightly guarded secret. This isn’t the first time the company has kept the presentation a surprise, so those interested will need to see for themselves what Loose Moose has in store for 2018! This production may feature themes and language not suitable for children, so it is not recommended as a family outing.
8. Perfectly Frank Christmas 2018 – Calgary Jazz Orchestra
Date: December 23
Time: 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Location: River Park Church (3818 14A St SW)
Tickets: Online here, by phone at 403-239-8545 or at the door
Calgary’s Jazz Orchestra will perform holiday classics from Frank Sinatra like “White Christmas” as well as other holiday favourites. Johnny Summers will join the orchestra for two shows on Sunday, and all ages are welcome to attend.