Holiday Arts & Culture: Special Shows for the Season
Gather friends and family to spend a night discovering the magic of the theater, as special holiday productions, musicals, symphonies and concerts illuminate the splendor of the season. From The Nutcracker to special appearances by classic pop icons, there’s a lot going on this holiday season in the performing arts for New Jersey. See the list below of events to put on your calendar:
A Christmas Carol
December 4 – 29, 2018
McCarter Theatre Center, Princeton
Delve into the spirit of the season with all the amazement that Scrooge himself discovers in this classic holiday story about generosity and kinship.
Elf, The Musical
December 5 – 16, 2018
Surflight Theatre, Beach Haven
Based on the beloved holiday movie, this rollicking comedy follows Buddy the Elf on his journey to discover his true identity.
98 Degrees: 98 Degrees at Christmas
December 7, 2018
Mayo Performing Arts Center, Morristown
One of the original boy bands of the 90s — feel the rhythm as 98 Degrees performs beloved hits and holiday music from their release, Let It Snow.
Cirque Dreams Holidaze
December 7 – 9, 2018
State Theatre, New Brunswick
You will be astonished at this production with over 300 costumes, 20 acts, renowned singers, original music and seasonal favorites to celebrate the season. All ages will marvel at the gravity-defying acrobatics, incredible feats and over-the-top theatrical production numbers in this show.
A Charlie Brown Christmas
December 8 – 16, 2018
Studio Players, Upper Montclair
Delighting generations of families every holiday season, the heartwarming cartoon now comes to life on stage with an all-star cast featuring Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the rest of the Peanuts gang.
American Repertory Ballet Presents The Nutcracker
December 14 – 16, 2018
Two River Theater, Red Bank
American Repertory Ballet showcases their take on the classic ballet, The Nutcracker, with Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score, stunning choreography and a cast of more than 100 wowing audiences of all ages.
New Jersey Ballet’s The Nutcracker with New Jersey Symphony Orchestra
December 14 – 27, 2018
Mayo Performing Arts Center, Morristown
Youngsters and grown-ups alike will be captivated with the elegant dancing, live orchestra music, surprising special effects, and a touch of holiday magic at this iconic production.
Joy to the World: A Christmas Suite
December 16, 2018
Count Basie Center for the Arts, Red Bank
Monmouth Civic Chorus deliver the sounds of the season at this annual holiday concert, showcasing favorite choruses from Handel's Messiah and Bach's Magnificat.
Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer
December 17 – 22, 2018
Ritz Theatre Company, Haddon Township
Bring the little ones to the Ritz Kidz production of Rudolph, where they can watch this cherished reindeer and the adventures of Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen and many others.
Salute to Vienna – New Year’s Eve Concert
December 31, 2019
State Theatre, New Brunswick
Say hello to the New Year with a glittery celebration that recreates Vienna’s golden era with sensational singing and dancing. Marvel as acclaimed European singers, ballet and champion ballroom dancers, and a live symphony orchestra sweep you away with their grand performances.
Find even more holiday events in New Jersey with the online events calendar.