Chloe Misseldine
Sat, Dec 14, 2024Credit: © Cheryl Mann 2024
DEC. 11 THROUGH 21
AMERICAN BALLET THEATRE’S “THE NUTCRACKER”
When Clara receives a nutcracker doll as a gift at her family Christmas party, she has no idea the incredible adventures that await her in her dreams that night. She discovers that her nutcracker doll has come to life as a prince and together they see dancing snowflakes, dueling mice soldiers, and flowers that waltz. American Ballet Theatre has been performing its production of the Christmas classic on the Segerstrom stage for 10 years, complete with more than 100 performers, beautiful costumes, and elaborate set designs. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, https://scfta.org
DEC. 10
SCOTT BRADLEE’S POSTMODERN JUKEBOX
The music group is bringing its Magic, Moonlight & Mistletoe tour to Anaheim for an evening of throwback hits. Postmodern Jukebox is best known for performing modern music in vintage styles such as jazz standards, Motown, doo-wop, and swing. Led by pianist Scott Bradlee, the ensemble features a rotating cast of singers and musicians. Expect a little bit of holiday spirit mixed in with their typical setlist. Grove of Anaheim, 2200 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714-712-2700, https://groveofanaheim.com
Barclay JazzCredit: Irvine Barclay Theatre
DEC. 10
SWINGIN’ THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS: THE BARCLAY JAZZ & BEYOND ORCHESTRA
The Barclay Jazz & Beyond Orchestra will perform new arrangements of jazz standards, Christmas classics, and contemporary hits. In addition to the orchestra, singer and pianist Ann Hampton Callaway and saxophonist Kirk Whalum will be performing. Expect to hear tunes such as “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and more in this swing- and jazz-heavy evening of holiday music. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-854-4646, https://thebarclay.org
DEC. 11 THROUGH 13
TONY YAZBECK
The beloved Broadway veteran will perform show tunes from throughout his career along with some dazzling tap-dancing numbers in his one-man show. Yazbeck has been appearing on Broadway since he landed a role in “Gypsy” at just 11 years old, and has gone on to star in more incredible productions, earning an Astaire Award and a Tony nomination for his work in “On the Town.” He most recently starred as Cary Grant in the new musical “Flying Over Sunset.” Samueli Theater, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, https://scfta.org
DEC. 11
KINGS RETURN PRESENTS: WE FOUR KINGS HOLIDAY SHOW
Known for their smooth harmonies and powerful a cappella performances, the Kings Return will perform holiday classics with their own unique twist. Experience songs like “Carol of the Bells,” “Silent Night,” and “Go Tell It on the Mountain” like you never have before. The four-piece a cappella group has been performing together and releasing music for nearly 10 years, including their own holiday album “We Four Kings.” Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-854-4646, https://thebarclay.org
THROUGH DEC. 21
SAWDUST WINTER FANTASY
Each year, the Sawdust Art Festival grounds become a whimsical winter wonderland complete with holiday decor, seasonal food, falling snow, carolers, and Santa Claus. Peruse art of all forms handcrafted by local artists while enjoying the holiday festivities. In addition to Christmas shopping and enjoying the festive decorations, visitors can catch live entertainment throughout the festival grounds including marionette shows and music. Sawdust Festival Grounds, 935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949-494-3030, https://sawdustartfestival.org
THROUGH DEC. 21
“SCROOGE! THE MUSICAL”
Following the same miserable character from Charles Dickens’ classic novel, “Scrooge! The Musical” is a touching twist on the classic tale with a bit more humor, drama, and music. Follow along as Ebenezer Scrooge, a man who despises all things Christmas and joy, embarks on the path of redemption one fateful Christmas Eve after being visited by the ghosts of Christmases past, present, and future. Chance Theater, 5522 E. La Palma Ave., Anaheim, 714-777-3033, https://chancetheater.com
THROUGH DEC. 30
IRVINE PARK RAILROAD CHRISTMAS VILLAGE
Visit the North Pole right in the middle of Orange County at Irvine Park Railroad’s Santa’s Village, Christmas Train, and Train of Lights. The Santa’s Village experience includes visits from Santa, carnival rides and games, cookie decorating, crafts, ice fishing, and more. Take a trip on the railroad through elaborate light displays on the Train of Lights. Through Dec. 23, visitors can go on the Christmas Train to visit Santa at the North Pole and deliver their own wish list. Irvine Park, 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, 714-997-3968, https://irvineparkrailroad.com
THROUGHOUT DECEMBER
WINTER FEST OC
Find fun festivities for the whole family all month long at the fairgrounds. Falling snow, ice tubing, elaborate light displays, Santa meet and greets, live shows, and festive photo backgrounds are just some of the offerings that will be available. For an additional cost, visitors can go on carnival rides, ice skate, play in the inflatable obstacle courses, visit the igloo bar, or play mini golf. OC Fair & Events Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, https://winterfestoc.com
THROUGHOUT DECEMBER
FIRE & LIGHTS FESTIVAL
At the picturesque Newport Dunes, more than 50 holiday decorations and Christmas trees will float along the shore in a dazzling display of lights. Thursday through Sunday each week, in addition to experiencing the light display, visitors can take photos with Santa, roast s’mores at the fire pits, play in the inflatable park, visit the igloo bar, and watch fire dancing performances. There will also be a Christmas tree lot with trees to purchase all season long. Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort, 1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach, 949-729-3863, https://newportdunes.com
THROUGH DEC. 21
“FANCY NANCY SPLENDIFEROUS CHRISTMAS”
It wouldn’t be a Fancy Nancy Christmas without heaping amounts of tinsel, glitter, and sparkles. Little Nancy wants to buy a new sparkly tree topper, so she sells some of her gowns to raise money for the cause. She simply can’t wait to adorn her beautiful tree and indulge in festive decorations and Christmas cookies, but things don’t go the way she planned. Bette Aitken Theater Arts Center, 5522 E. La Palma Ave., Anaheim, 888-455-4212, https://chancetheater.com
DEC. 6 THROUGH 10
CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT
The Pacific Chorale will kick off the holiday season with its annual Carols by Candlelight performances. The group’s chamber singers will perform a selection of traditional and contemporary beloved carols selected by conductor Robert Istad. The intimate performance features organ and piano in the candlelit and picturesque church setting. Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church, 2100 Mar Vista Drive, Newport Beach, 714-662-2345, https://pacificchorale.org
DEC. 6 THROUGH 28
“A SNOW WHITE CHRISTMAS: 10TH ANNIVERSARY LYTHGOE FAMILY PANTO”
Slapstick comedy and current pop hits collide with the classic story of Snow White in this witty Lythgoe Family pantomime play. For a decade, the production company has brought its twists on classic fairy tales to the Laguna Playhouse stage with ridiculous holiday-themed performances. This year, Snow White and the seven dwarves sing and dance to the likes of Lady Gaga with silly, sparkly costumes and puppetry. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949-497-2787, https://lagunaplayhouse.com