Where:
Boston
Surrounding areas
Boston, MA
Admission:
$Varies
Categories:
Art, Date Idea, Music, Seasonal, Shows
Event website:
https://www.thebostoncalendar.com/events/10-holiday-shows-in-boston-to-enjoy-this-season
Nothing heralds the holiday season quite like a classic performance. Whether it’s traditional carols, a lavish ballet, or a newly created local story, these performances will get you into the holiday spirit.
Experiences are listed in chronological order.
Boston Ballet Presents Mikko Nissinen's The Nutcracker
When: November 25-December 31
Where: Downtown | Citizens Bank Opera House
Cost: $30+
Info: It’s hard to get any more classic than ‘The Nutcracker,’ and no one does it quite as well as The Boston Ballet. Set to Tchaikovsky’s famous score, this impeccably performed ballet takes you on a journey through a magical, festive world of fairies, chivalry, and sweet treats.
Cirque Du Soleil - Twas The Night Before
When: November 25- December 11
Where: Downtown | Wang Theatre
Cost: $35+
Info: In their first ever holiday show, Cirque du Soleil tells the story of Isabella, a girl who’s more interested in her TikTok than her family’s holiday traditions. But when she and her father are swept up into the acrobatic circus holiday world of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, everything changes.
Boston Pops: Holiday Pops (pictured)
When: December 1-24
Where: South End/Fenway | Symphony Hall
Cost: $22+
Info: The Boston Pops ring in the holiday season with a festive concert featuring classic Christmas carols, a narrative telling of the Mexican tradition “Los Pasados,” Ukrainian holiday songs, a special visit from Santa himself, and more.
The Main Stage Holiday Show at Improv Asylum
When: December 1-27
Where: North End | Improv Asylum
Cost: $29
Info: The Main Stage cast at Improv Asylum put their impromptu talents to the stressful holiday test this year with a weekly show themed around the festive season. Taking suggestions from the audience they’ll create a one-of-a-kind performance about this time of year.
When: December 2-31
Where: Somerville
Cost: $35 | The Somerville Theatre
Info: If ‘The Nutcracker’ isn’t really your speed, perhaps you’d prefer the raunchier version, and Somerville favorite, ‘The Slutcracker.’ This burlesque adaptation is wildly comedic, inclusive, and showcases talents from a cast of diverse creeds and talents.
When: December 2-18
Where: Downtown | Paramount Center
Cost: $35+
Info: Originally written by Langston Hughes, this adaptation of the nativity story features an all Black cast and a gospel and spiritual score. Boston’s edition has been running for over 50 years, performed by community members and featuring a uniquely choreographed African drum scene.
When: December 4-18
Where: South End | NEC Jordan Hall
Cost: $29
Info: Celebrate the holiday season and the full spectrum of sexuality at the Boston Gay Men’s Chorus holiday performance. The group will perform traditional favorites and modern classics to welcome the season.
Tafuta! A Young Child's Search for the True Meaning of Kwanzaa
When: December 17
Where: Roxbury | Roxbury Community College
Cost: $25
Info: ‘Tafuta!’ is a locally created play that uses music, dance, and poetry to tell the story of a young boy who is bullied for celebrating Kwanzaa. As the story goes on he learns why the tradition is so special.
When: December 17-23
Where: Downtown | Boch Center Shubert Theatre
Cost: $29+
Info: Created by Anthony Williams, the first Black dancer in The Boston Ballet, ‘The Urban Nutcracker’ is a rendition of the classic story that celebrates Boston and all the different people in it. Expect to see the Citgo sign, hip-hop dance battles, and the ‘Make Way for Ducklings’ ducks.
"The Holiday Sing-Along!" With Phil Berman & Sarah Nolen
When: December 21-23
Where: Brookline | Puppet Showplace Theater
Cost: $16
Info: This family-friendly puppet show allows you and your family to sing along to popular holiday songs with the help of a dancing snowman, a festive puppy, and two talented local artists. Recommended for any kids ages 2+.
Photo by Emily Gringorten at the Opening Night at Boston Pops: Holiday Pops 2022
Thursday, Dec 19, 2024 4:00p
Crystal Ballroom at Somerville Theatre
Saturday, Dec 21, 2024 11:00a
Crystal Ballroom at Somerville Theatre