Arts & Entertainment:
Holiday Happenings in Metro DC
December 11 – 17, 2014
Always call or check the event website before heading out;
Event information is subject to change.
***Washington D.C.***
NSO Youth Fellows
Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage
Thursday, December 11 ∙ 6:00 pm ∙ FREE!
Members of the National Symphony Orchestra training program perform solos on the Millennium Stage. The purpose of the program is to develop and encourage high school students to become orchestral musicians of the future through a monitored, performance-oriented training program designed for serious music students.
Deck the Halls: Holidays at the White House
National Archives
Thursday, December 11 ∙ 7:00 pm ∙ FREE!
Over the years, first families and White House staff have adorned the White House for the holiday season with decorations that evoke the holiday spirit and reflect the times. Panelists, including Lynda Johnson Robb, daughter of President Johnson, Genevieve Gorder, Host of HGTV’s White House Christmas, former White House Chief Usher Gary Walters, and Coleen Christian Burke, author of Christmas with the First Ladies will present a visual feast of the themes, designs, and processes that go into decking the halls, rooms, and exterior of the White House. The official 2014 White House Christmas Ornament, featuring President Warren G. Harding, will be available for purchase.
A book signing will follow the program.
Holiday Wreath Workshop
Tudor Place Historic House and Garden
Friday, December 12 & Saturday, December 13 ∙ 10:00 am & 1:00 pm ∙ $38-$48
Learn to make your own lush wreath using greenery from the Tudor Place Garden. We provide instruction along with all the cedar, magnolia, berry-laden holly, pinecones, and boxwood you’ll need, as well as generous supplies of ribbons and décor. You provide the imagination — no prior expertise required.
Baby Rex’s Holiday Surprise: with DinoRock Productions
Presented by: The Smithsonian Associates
Venue: Smithsonian Discovery Theater
Through Friday, December 12 ∙ 10:15 am & 11:30 am ∙ $5
It’s the perfect holiday color scheme: jolly dinosaur green with a little bit of red. But is Baby Rex ready for the holiday season? Pals Massimo Maxicalisaurus and Shao Shao the Microraptor lead Baby Rex on a globetrotting musical journey to show that midwinter celebrations are all about family, food, and sharing the fun. Ages 2-6.
Target Family Night: Washington National Opera preview of The Little Prince
Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage
Friday, December 12 ∙ 6:00 pm ∙ FREE!
WNO gives audiences a preview of the holiday family opera The Little Prince, “a magical opera” based on the original storybook written by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. Relive its joy and wonder in Rachel Portman’s “enchanting opera…satisfying to child and adult alike” (Financial Times).
Tea with Santa
Dumbarton House
Saturday, December 13 ∙ 10:00 am & 2:00 pm ∙ $25-$30
Sit back, relax and let Santa’s helpers serve you during this magical holiday experience. While visiting with Santa, families enjoy a delicious holiday tea complete with special holiday tea blends, hot apple cider, sandwiches and desserts. After taking tea, children decorate their own gingerbread cookies to take home.
Gingerbread House Workshop!
Tudor Place Historic House and Garden
Saturday, December 13 ∙ 10:30 am, 12:30 pm & 2:00 pm ∙ $3-$10
Gingerbread is but one of many classic traditions children can learn about in this lively tour and craft workshop. In the 1816 mansion, children become History Detectives, touring its rooms for clues about how holidays were celebrated in the past. Next, they design and build their own edible gingerbread houses to take home (one per child). For ages 5+
Family Joy!
Presented by: Cathedral Choral Society
Venue: Washington National Cathedral
Saturday, December 13 ∙ 12:00 pm ∙ $15-$25 [Discount for Joy of Christmas]
Join us for a Family Christmas Concert at Washington National Cathedral. This 60-minute program includes the procession of the advent wreath, Christmas favorites and a kids only! sing-along.
Holiday Shopping and Book Signing
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Saturday, December 13 & Sunday, December 14 ∙ 12:00 pm ∙ FREE Admission
Up With Paper Lead Paper Engineer Yevgeniya Yeretskaya, who won the 2011 Moonbeam Award for Best Pop-Up Book for her work on the company’s Snowflakes title, provided layouts and paper engineering for the book, will be signing in the Grand Foyer outside the Opera House.
Ballet West: The Nutcracker
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Through Sunday, December 13 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $56-$152
Ballet West returns to the Kennedy Center with Willam Christensen’s beloved production of The Nutcracker danced to Tchaikovsky’s timeless score.
NSO Pops: Happy Holidays! with Cirque de la Symphonie / Steven Reineke, conductor
Presented by: National Symphony Orchestra
Venue: John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Thru Saturday, December 13 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $20-$88
Back by popular demand for the holidays–with new acts and returning favorites! Aerialists, jugglers, illusionists, and more bring the circus to the Concert Hall. “Dazzling and elegant, if not death-defying!” says the San Francisco Examiner.
Joy of Motion Dance Center Fall Youth Company Concert
Joy of Motion Dance Center – Atlas
Saturday, December 13 ∙ 6:00 pm & 8:00 pm ∙ $17-$22
Join Joy of Motion Dance Center as we celebrate our youth dance companies in the annual Fall Youth Company Concert! The concert will feature performances in a range of styles from hip hop to belly dance! Our youth have been working hard, come and support them!
Kwanzaa Celebration 2014
Dance Place
Saturday, December 13 ∙ 8:00 pm & Sunday, December 14 ∙ 4:00 pm ∙ $15-$30
Welcome the holiday season with Dance Place’s annual Kwanzaa Celebration! Gather family and friends to watch Coyaba Academy, Coyaba Dance Theater and special guests celebrate the seven principles of Kwanzaa.
Holiday Shopping and Steinbach Nutcracker Signing
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Sunday, December 14 ∙ 12:00 pm
The name Steinbach is recognized all over the world for the unique design of their wood carved Steinbach Nutcracker creations developed many years ago by the Steinbach Family. Karolin Steinbach will sign some of her family’s creations.
Girl Scouts’ High Tea for the Holidays
Tudor Place Historic House and Garden
Sunday, December 14 ∙ 1:00 pm ∙ $20-$25
Join fellow scouts for an elegant Victorian tea and a tour of the mansion, decked for the holidays in Red, Green and Gold: Tudor Place Sparkles for Christmas, a blend of contemporary style and classic traditions. Begin in the 1873 Dower House with tea sandwiches, scones, delicious desserts and historic tea blends. Then “stroll into the past” on a guided docent tour through the festively decorated 1816 National Historic Landmark mansion.
For Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors.
A Christmas Story as told by Largo High School
Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage
Sunday, December 14 ∙ 6:00 pm ∙ FREE!
Don’t miss a special performance of Largo High School’s winter presentation, featuring dance, narration, instrumental, and vocal music by the talented students of the Largo Arts Department.
Copland-Appalachian Spring
Presented by: Washington Performing Arts
Venue: Baird Auditorium, Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Sunday, December 14 ∙ 6:00 pm ∙ $20
In his acclaimed What Makes It Great? series, former NPR music commentator Rob Kapilow “gets audiences in tune with classical music at a deeper level than they ever thought possible” (Los Angeles Times). In a three-part format, Kapilow unravels and explores a great musical masterpiece with the audience. Next, the Curtis 20/21 Ensemble performs the piece in its entirety, followed by a Q&A with the audience and performers.
Tudor Tots: Winter Wiggles
Tudor Place Historic House and Garden
Tuesdays, December 16 & 23 ∙ 10:00 am & 1:00 pm ∙ $0-$5
Celebrate the holidays at Tudor Place! Children enjoy holiday themed songs, stories, and movement activities. After stories, children make their own holiday craft to take home. Themes and crafts change weekly. Ages 2 – 4
National Chanukah Menorah Lighting Ceremony
The Ellipse
Tuesday, December 16 ∙ 4:00 pm ∙ FREE, but tickets required
The gate will open at 3:15 pm. Tickets are free, but required.
Featuring the United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” and the “Three Cantors.” Fun for the whole family includes hot latkes and donuts, menorah kits and dreidels.
Seasons of Light
Presented by: The Smithsonian Associates
Venue: National Museum of the American Indian
Through Friday, December 19 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $6-$8
Joy, warmth, and community illuminate seasonal holiday celebrations the world over. Back for its 16th season, this signature Discovery Theater show celebrates the history and customs of Ramadan, Devali, Sankta Lucia, Chanukah, Las Posadas, Kwanzaa, Christmas, and the First Nations’ tradition of the Winter Solstice in an interactive event that bridges communities and cultures. Ages 5-10.
Step Afrika! Magical Musical Holiday Step Show
Atlas Performing Arts Center
Thru Monday, December 22 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $20-$38
Step Afrika! is back to delight audiences young and old with their magical musical holiday step show. Audiences are invited to make music with DC’s internationally-known stepping company and their furry friends from the Animal Kingdom in this annual holiday tradition! Come ready to bring in the festive season with a bang featuring the electrifying artists from Step Afrika! and special guest DJ Frosty the Snowman.
A Renaissance Christmas
Presented by: Folger Consort
Venue: Folger Shakespeare Library
Tuesday, December 16 thru Tuesday, December 23 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $35-$50
Celebrate the holidays with music from the courts of Renaissance Flanders and Italy. The Consort explores expressive seasonal works by masters Obrecht, Compère, and Josquin – including Josquin’s “Ave Maria” and Compère’s “Adoramus te, Christe.” Featuring winds, viol, lute, & a quintet of voices. “Folger Consort gives the best Christmas concert in Washington.” – DCist
10th Annual Downtown Holiday Market
Presented by: Downtown DC Business Improvement District (BID)
Venue: F St. Sidewalk
Through Tuesday, December 23 ∙ Open Noon-8pm Daily ∙ FREE Admission!
More than 150 exhibitors and artisans offer a diverse array of quality items. Local fashion trendsetters, regional artisans, and small businesses provide fine art, crafts, glass, jewelry, pottery, photography and clothing to satisfy every gift-giving need. Shoppers will enjoy free live music, tasty treats, and seasonal décor at the festive market.
The Nutcracker
Presented by: The Washington Ballet
Venue: Warner Theatre
Thru Sunday, December 28 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $32-$107
On the occasion of the 10th anniversary of his highly-acclaimed production, Septime Webre is planning some special surprises for his celebrated all-American Nutcracker. Set in 1882 Georgetown, this gorgeous production showcases the grandeur of The Washington Ballet’s international roster of dancers and majesty of Tchaikovsky’s music. Replete with swirling snowflakes, cherry blossoms and historical characters, including George Washington as the heroic nutcracker, TWB’s The Nutcracker has become a tradition for generations of family and friends to celebrate the holidays.
The Gift of Nothing
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Through Sunday, December 28 ∙ Schedule varies ∙ $20
In this Kennedy Center world premiere musical starring characters from the comic strip MUTTS, a charming cat searches for a special gift for his best friend, a lovable pup. Join Mooch and Earl for this heartwarming adventure! Age 4+
National Christmas Tree
The Ellipse
Thru Thursday, January 1, 2015 ∙ 10:00 am – 10:00 pm ∙ FREE!
The National Christmas Tree and the Pageant of Peace—which includes nightly concerts—are open to the public daily from 10 am to 10 pm through New Year’s Day.
A Christmas Carol
Ford’s Theatre
Through Thursday, January 1, 2015 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $32-$95
The annual Ford’s Theatre production of A Christmas Carol has been a Washington tradition for more than 30 years. Join the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future as they lead the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of transformation and redemption. Originally conceived by Michael Baron, this music-infused production captures the magic and joy of Dickens’s Yuletide classic. Celebrated Washington stage actor Edward Gero returns to play Scrooge in the production The Washington Post hailed as “musically high-spirited” and “infectiously jolly.”
***Maryland***
”Frozen” Sing-A-Long
Montpelier Arts Center
Saturday, December 13 ∙ 11:00 am ∙ FREE!
Fearless optimist Anna teams up with rugged mountain man Kristoff, his loyal reindeer Sven, and a hilarious snowman named Olaf in an epic journey, braving Everest-like conditions to find and save her sister Elsa, whose icy powers have trapped the kingdom in eternal winter. Elsa, haunted by the moment her magic nearly killed her sister Anna, has isolated herself, spending every waking moment trying to suppress her powers, but fears she’s becoming a monster and that no one, not even Anna, can help her.
All ages; includes snacks and beverages.
Brentwood Arts Exchange Holiday Craft Fair
Brentwood Arts Exchange
Saturday, December 13 ∙ 11:00 am ∙ FREE!
Don’t get stuck at crowded malls this season buying generic gift sets for your loved ones…Come to the Brentwood Arts Exchange Holiday Craft Fair! Thirteen Fine Craft artisans from the community will be displaying their items for sale inside our warm and cozy gallery and classroom. A wide selection of fine craft items will be available such as pottery, jewelry, textiles, glass, ornaments, and much more.
Holiday Glass Ornaments
VisArts at Rockville
Saturday, December 13 ∙ 4:00 pm ∙ $10
Explore your creative holiday spririt and join us for this fused glass ornaments workshop. The $10 fee includes instruction, use of tools and grinders and 1 ornament. Additional ornaments (up to 3 additional and each no larger in size than 4 x 4) can be made for $5 additional each. Precut forms make this a perfect event for families. Make a new holiday tradition! No experience necessary. Each enrolled child between 5 and 8 must be accompanied by an enrolled adult.
An A Capella Holiday with the Capital Hearings
Montpelier Arts Center
Sunday, December 14 ∙ 4:00 pm ∙ $15
Since 2010, the lush a cappella harmonies of The Capital Hearings have delighted Washington audiences, large and small. With repertoire ranging from Renaissance motets to modern hits, this dynamic ensemble is praised for its versatility. The Capital Hearings will be making spirits bright with a festive, family-friendly program of seasonal favorites, vocal jazz, and contemporary arrangements. The perfect holiday concert! “Once again, The Capital Hearings had stolen the show.” —Roll Call
Holiday Tales
Publick Playhouse
Tuesday, December 16 ∙ 10:15 am & 12:00 pm ∙ $6-$8
A sparkling multi-cultural collection full of holiday legends, the program includes Gift of the Magi, The Nutcracker, Kwanzaa Kite, and Soul of a Menorah. Performed by the Emmy-nominated Pushcart Players, at the heart of each story are gifts of love, kindness, compassion and generosity. This program will warm your heart with the genuine spirit of the season.
Curriculum Connections: literature classics, language arts, music, dance, and theatre arts.
Recommended for grades K-8
Strathmore Children’s Chorus Winter Concert
Strathmore
Tuesday, December 16 ∙ 7:30 pm ∙ $16
Enjoy a beautiful collection of winter and holiday music with the Strathmore Children’s Chorus, featuring the North Bethesda Middle School Choir.
Under the direction of founding conductor and artistic director Christopher G. Guerra, three performing ensembles (Treble Chorus, Concert Chorus, and Young Men’s Chorus) plus a Training Chorus for new singers, promote self-expression in singers, celebrate the diverse musical traditions of our residents, and engage talented youth in joy-filled and uplifting music-making.
Disney’s The Little Mermaid
Olney Theatre Center
Through Sunday, December 28 ∙ Schedule varies ∙ $32-$65
In a magical underwater kingdom, the beautiful young mermaid Ariel longs to leave her ocean home, and her fins, behind and live in the world above. But first she’ll have to defy her father King Triton, make a deal with the evil sea witch Ursula, and convince the handsome Prince Eric that she’s the girl whose enchanting voice he’s been seeking.
A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christmas
Olney Theatre Center
Through Sunday, December 28 ∙ Schedule varies ∙ $35-$40
The Holiday Tradition Continues! Olney Theatre Center favorite Paul Morella returns to bring his unique and memorable adaptation of A Christmas Carol to life this holiday season. Experience the unforgettable characters and vivid imagery as Charles Dickens originally intended – in his own words – and rediscover this timeless classic presented in a masterful solo performance.
The Nutcracker
Round House Theatre
Through Sunday, December 28 ∙ Schedule varies ∙ $10-$45 [Discount]
This captivating new musical reinvents E.T.A. Hoffman’s original tale, turning it into a brand new seasonal classic. Weaving together spellbinding spectacle, riveting dialogue, astonishing puppetry, and a delightful original score, Clara’s crusade to save her family (with the assistance of a remarkable nutcracker) comes alive with dazzling theatricality. This contemporary retelling is a heartwarming, hilarious story of magic and hope that’s as poignant and touching as it is hilarious, tuneful, and fun.
Created by Tommy Rapley, Jake Minton, Phillip Klapperich, and Kevin O’Donnell
Book by Jake Minton and Phillip Klapperich
Music by Kevin O’Donnell, Lyrics by Jake Minton
Based on the story by E.T.A. Hoffman
Directed by Joe Calarco
Tiny Tots – Nutcracker Fantasy
The Puppet Co. Playhouse
Through Tuesday, December 30 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $5
Some non-traditional arrangements from the Nutcracker Suite transport you to the Kingdoms of Snow, Sweets, Flowers, and Faraway Places! Designed just for our youngest theater patrons (ages 0-4 years old), “Tiny Tots @ 10:00″ offers a viewing atmosphere especially suited to small fry, their parents and caregivers: *Shorter shows (about 30 minutes) *No dark room *No loud noises *The theater doors stay open. Reminder: Everyone needs a ticket, including infants.
Tiny Tim’s Christmas Carol
Adventure Theatre MTC
Through Thursday, January 1, 2015 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $19 [Discount]
Tiny Tim longs to have his father home on Christmas day, but mean old Mr. Scrooge won’t give Bob Crachit the day off! There must be a way to change Scrooge’s mind – perhaps a ghost or two will set Scrooge right. Can this clever boy and his best friend Charlotte save Christmas and change the heart of the meanest man in town? This exciting world premiere story of a father and son is adapted by Broadway’s Tony-winning Ken Ludwig (Twas the Night Before Christmas) and his very own son, Jack. Get ready for the wildest ride you’ve ever had at Christmas!
Based on “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens
Adapted by Ken Ludwig and Jack Ludwig
Directed by Jerry Whiddon
Starring Chris Dinolfo
Recommended for Ages 4 and up
The Nutcracker
The Puppet Co. Playhouse
Through Tuesday, December 30 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $10 [Discount]
The Nutcracker is the story of Clara-Marie’s favorite toy, and their adventures together in the Land of the Sugarplum Fairy. Music from Tchaikovsky’s famous ballet blends with marionettes and costume characters to create this unique production.
Running Time: 50 Minutes
Ages: K – Adult
***Virginia***
Second Thursday Art Night
Torpedo Factory Art Center
Thursday, December 11 ∙ 6:00 pm ∙ FREE!
Second Thursday Art Night series brings the fun and spontaneity of the creative process to the streets of Old Town. Visitors can browse open studios and galleries, interact with artists, and enjoy refreshments and music for free on the second Thursday of each month. Stop by on your way to dinner and make an evening of it!
This year’s events focus on specific artistic disciplines represented in our building. Look for special themed exhibits, sales and activities designed to highlight a particular visual form.
Nutcracker Petite Performances
BalletNova Center for Dance
Friday, December 12 thru Saturday, December 13 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $15-$20
A Petite Performance for a Petite Audience! BalletNova performs Act II of The Nutcracker in the Fredgren Studio Theatre. Designed for kids under the age of 6, this performance is short and sweet and offers kids the opportunity to meet the dancers after the performance. Tickets sell out fast!
Christmas Cookie Exchange
Workhouse Arts Center
Saturday, December 13 ∙ 10:00 am ∙ $40
Learn to create some of the classic Christmas cookies from around the world and treat your neighbors and friends to a truly traditional gift this year. Some of the cookies could include Gingerbread men, Mexican wedding cookies, snowflakes, and thumbprints! A great workshop to take with the family. (Meets in W-3, 302)
All Skill Levels, Ages 4 and Up, FAMILY CLASS, Instructor: Chef Kathleen Linton. Sat Dec 13 (10am-12pm). Price is per student-at least one youth AND at least one adult must register the same time for these special classes. Materials cost of $5 per student covers fresh foods used in class, payable to instructor at first class.
Doughnuts with Santa
Workhouse Arts Center
Saturdays, December 13 & 20 ∙ 11:00 am ∙ $20
Join Santa and his helpers for a special experience at Donuts With Santa. Each ticketholder will enjoy two donuts and a choice of juice or coffee while Santa and his Elves read a classic Christmas story and lead a fun-filled family sing-a-long. There will be plenty of time to meet Santa and parents are encouraged to bring their cameras for those special photos!
Children’s Theatre: A Christmas Carol
Workhouse Arts Center
Saturdays, December 13, 20, 27 ∙ 1:00 pm ∙ $9-$13
LIVE onstage! When Scrooge, the owner of a hotel, decides that his employees can’t have the day off to enjoy Christmas with their families, Santa (in disguise), decides it is time for a change. Santa sends The Spirit of Christmas to visit Scrooge and show him his past, present and future. Will Scrooge’s heart change?
Frozen
The Alden
Saturday, December 13 ∙ 2:00 pm ∙ FREE!
Just when your kids stopped singing “Let It Go,” the blockbuster movie returns. Bring the whole family to see it again (or for the first time) on the big screen. We’ll even let you sing along!
Rated PG, 102 minutes.
2nd Saturday Art Walk
Workhouse Arts Center
Saturday, December 13 ∙ 6:00 pm ∙ FREE!
The 2nd Saturday Art Walk at the Workhouse showcases the diverse work of more than 100 visual artists in a unique historic venue, creating an atmosphere that encourages visitors to immerse themselves in the richness of this creative community.
Holiday Chamber Music Concert
Presented by: Prelude: The Arlington Youth Orchestral Program
Venue: Theatre on the Run
Saturday, December 13 ∙ 7:00 pm ∙ FREE!
Please join us for the perfect blend of holiday favorites and classic string quartet selections as the talented musicians of Prelude’s Chamber Music Program present their Holiday program. You will be charmed by fun and unusual arrangements of tunes to put you in the spirit of the season, while the music of Beethoven, Mozart, and Boccherini melts away any lingering Holiday stress. Prelude audiences are always invited to a reception after the performance to mingle with the musicians. We look forward to seeing you there.
The Interpersonal Underworld
Presented by: ACW Dances
Venue: Gunston Theatre Two
Thru Saturday, December 13 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $10
Is it possible to build a perfect group? Join ACW Dances as they dive headfirst into building interpersonal relationships. Over two interconnected works, this evening-length show uses humor, highly athletic, daring choreography, and audience interaction to address issues of group dynamics. We search for inclusion, control, and affection. The possibilities are endless; come explore with us!
Arts on the Horizon Presents: Snow Day
Workhouse Arts Center
Thru Sunday, December 14 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $8
Written and Directed by Rex Daugherty. Recommended for children ages 2-6.
One cold December morning, a young girl named Skip wakes up to find the entire neighborhood covered in a thick, dazzling blanket of snow. A playful (if not a little mischievous) winter elf takes her on an adventure- showing her just how magical snow can be! Join Skip as she experiences all the excitement, joy and wonder of her very first snow day. This nonverbal world premiere production features live music and lots of wintertime fun, just in time for the holidays.
Nutcracker Tea with the Sugar Plum Fairy
Presented by: BalletNova Center for Dance
Venue: Ritz-Carlton Pentagon City
Sunday, December 14 ∙ 10:30 am & 2:00 pm ∙ $48-$68
Come Dressed in Your Holiday Best for Tea with the Sugar Plum Fairy! Join BalletNova, The Sugar Plum Fairy and her character friends for a very special Holiday Tea! Guests will get their picture taken with Sugar Plum, enjoy excerpts from BalletNova’s Nutcracker, and enjoy an elegant high tea at The Ritz-Carlton. Private tables of 4 and VIP tables of 10 are available.
Grump at Artisphere: Supersized
Artisphere
Sunday, December 14 ∙ 11:00 am ∙ FREE!
The fourth annual GRUMP will be bigger and better than ever! This year, GRUMP is SUPERSIZED! We are taking over the entire Artisphere facility with 75 local vendors, snacks, music and fun. Bring the kids because the 1966 cartoon classic, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” will play all day long in the Dome Theatre for free. GRUMP will be your best chance to shop local this holiday season AND get your picture taken with a Yeti!
Holiday Chamber Music Concert
Presented by: Prelude: The Arlington Youth Orchestral Program
Venue: Williamsburg Middle School
Sunday, December 14 ∙ 4:00 pm ∙ FREE!
Please join Prelude’s String Orchestra for the perfect afternoon concert, featuring both the full string orchestra and smaller chamber ensembles. We are proud to perform an exciting arrangement of the beloved William Tell Overture alongside works by Vivaldi, Handel, and even Joplin. This concert is sure cast a warm glow over the holiday bustle. Please join us afterward for a reception to celebrate the hard work and joyful music making of this fine young ensemble.
Annual Holiday Concert
Presented by: National Chamber Ensemble
Venue: Rosslyn Spectrum Theatre
Sunday, December 14 ∙ 4:30 pm ∙ $15-$30
The National Chamber Ensemble invites young emerging musicians to join in the fun filled performance. An Annual tradition, the concert concludes with a Carols Sing-Along to get everyone in the holiday spirit!
A Classical Holiday Performance
Kirov Academy of Ballet Washington, DC
Thursday, December 18 thru Saturday, December 20 ∙ 7:00 pm ∙ $30 [Discount]
A classical holiday performance featuring The Nutcracker Act II as well as famous selections from the Mariinsky Ballet repertoire.
Peabo Bryson: The Colors of Christmas
Strathmore
Friday, December 19 ∙ 8:00 pm ∙ $35-$100
The stars shine in this soulful celebration! Silken-voiced, Grammy Award-winning R&B legend Peabo Bryson is joined by Tony Award winning singer Jennifer Holliday, pop diva Taylor Dayne, and “American Idol”-winner Ruben Studdard for an unforgettable evening of pop hits and Christmas favorites.
Holiday Family Opera: The Little Prince
Presented by: Washington National Opera
Venue: John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Friday, December 19 thru Sunday, December 21 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $45-$69
For its annual family holiday production, WNO brings to life all the joy and wonder of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s storybook in Oscar winner Rachel Portman’s “enchanting opera..satisfying to child and adult alike” (Financial Times).
Culture Shock, Washington, DC: Holiday Showcase
Dance Place
Friday, December 19 & Saturday, December 20 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $20-$25
Dynamic hip-hop performances by all of Washington, DC’s Culture Shock troupes: Afta Shock, Culture Shock, Future Shock, Mini Shock and Mighty Shock. Committed to creating fresh, innovative choreography at the forefront of the hip-hop dance community, the world-renowned Culture Shock troupes have brought their groundbreaking hip-hop performances to stages all over the world.
First Studio: An Art Exploration for 3-5 Year-Olds
Kreeger Museum
Saturday, December 20 ∙ 10:00 am ∙ $0-$7
Children and an adult companion are invited to use their imagination as they explore the paintings, sculpture, and architecture of The Kreeger Museum. Each program includes a gallery tour, analysis of works of art, a story and a hands-on art-making experience.
Family Chocolate House Workshop
Tudor Place Historic House and Garden
Saturday, December 20 ∙ 10:30 am & 1:30 pm ∙ $3-$15
Classic traditions come to life in this lively house tour and craft workshop. In the 1816 mansion, children become History Detectives, touring the rooms for clues about how holidays were celebrated in the past. Next, they design and build their own chocolate houses to take home, complete with chocolate walls and roofs and sweet décor. Enjoy hot apple cider and sweet treats after the program during house-making. For ages 5+
Chantons Noel – Holiday Concert
Presented by: Children’s Chorus of Washington (CCW)
Venue: National City Christian Church
Saturday, December 20 & Sunday, December 21 ∙ 4:00 pm ∙ $10-$50
Get in the true spirit of the holiday season with the angelic sounds of the Children’s Chorus of Washington with a French flair, featuring CCW’s five award-winning chorus ensembles, and the Amadeus Brass Quintet.
The December 20th performance (Program I) features CCW’s Bel Canto Chorus, Concert Chorus, Chamber Ensemble, and Young Men’s Ensemble. The December 21st performance (Program II) features CCW’s Treble Chorus, Concert Chorus, Chamber Ensemble, and Young Men’s Ensemble.
In Concert: O, Holy Night
Workhouse Arts Center
Saturday, December 20 ∙ 7:00 pm & Sunday, December 21 ∙ 5:00 pm ∙ $8-$15
LIVE onstage! Our cadre of carolers perform some of the world’s most beautiful music to celebrate the Christmas season. Workhouse cabaret vocalists perform the most loved music of the season on the Workhouse stage. Join us for a musical sleigh ride on a journey of music, love, laughter and memories that is sure to delight all. Running time approximately 90 minutes, appropriate for all ages.
Vienna Boys Choir: Christmas in Vienna
George Mason University’s Center for the Arts
Saturday, December 20 ∙ 8:00 pm & Sunday, December 21 ∙ 4:00 pm ∙ $30-$50
This spirited performance by these remarkable Austrian youngsters features everything from ancient hymns and traditional Christmas carols to popular holiday favorites and songs from across the globe. Audiences and critics worldwide have praised these talented singers for their celestial voices, rapturous harmonies, pure tone, appealing demeanor, and, above all, a wide-ranging repertoire spanning centuries and genres. Dating back over half a millennium, the history of this choir has been associated with many of the world’s great composers, including Mozart and Bruckner; Franz Schubert himself was even a chorister.
Kwanza, Kwanza!
Publick Playhouse
Sunday, December 28 ∙ 3:00 pm ∙ $15-$20
Sankofa Dance Theatre of Baltimore presents a joyous program celebrating heritage, family and community. The symbols of Kwanzaa are enhanced with African music, traditional tales, dance and drumming. “Sankofa” means learning from the past to build for the future. Join us for a heartwarming, interactive performance for the whole family that reaches into the rich legacy of African culture and history to embrace the proud shared culture of African Americans.
A Jazz New Year’s Eve: Branford Marsalis
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Wednesday, December 31 ∙ 7:30 pm & 9:30 pm ∙ $85
Ring in 2015 with Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Branford Marsalis, a 2011 NEA Jazz Master and Tony Award nominee, and his quartet–one of the leading jazz groups working today.
New Year’s Eve at The Kennedy Center
Presented by: National Symphony Orchestra
Venue: John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Wednesday, December 31 ∙ 8:30 pm ∙ $55-$120
Usher in the New Year with Steven Reineke, members of the NSO, and a special guest artist to be announced at a later date! After the concert, enjoy dancing, a countdown to 2015, and a balloon drop, all included with your concert ticket.
Three Kings Day Celebration
GALA Hispanic Theatre
Sunday, January 4, 2015 ∙ 11:30 am & 2:30 pm ∙ FREE!
Don’t miss GALA’s traditional Three Kings celebration, featuring the Magi, live animals, local performers, a walk through the neighborhood, and gifts for every child. Free for the entire family!
Networks Presents Disney’s Beauty And The Beast
Warner Theatre
Tuesday, January 6 thru Sunday, January 11, 2015 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $42-$122
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast is the classic story of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped in a spell placed by an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. But time is running out. If t