Holiday Happenings
Here are 8 can't-miss holiday shows to see in Austin this season
The holidays bring tons of special seasonal events and festivities around town, and the arts are no exception. From family-friendly to adults-only shows, these are the eight can't-miss performances to see this holiday season in Austin.
A Christmas Carol
This is perhaps the most timeless and beloved Christmas story of all. Zach Theatre puts a fresh spin on the Charles Dickens tale with modern versions of classic carols while still keeping the Victorian vibe. This is the most popular show in Zach's history, and if you haven't seen it yet, then this is the year.
Dates: Now through Sunday, December 27
Recommended ages: 5 and up
Tickets: From $25
The Santaland Diaries
Also at Zach Theatre, this hilarious production is one just for the adults. Based on the tale by David Sedaris that recounts his days working as an elf during the Christmas season at Macy's, this raunchy and subversive cabaret show is the perfect show for those of us who don't love holidays shows. Follow Crumpet the elf (played by Martin Burke) as he deals with the madness that is the "painfully festive" Christmas season.
Dates: Now through Sunday, December 27
Recommended ages: Adult
Tickets: From $25
The Nutcracker
An annual holiday classic around the world, this beautiful performance is being presented by Ballet Austin for the 53rd year at the Long Center. Catch all of your sugar plum fairies and dueling mice soldiers dancing along to beloved Tchaikovsky tunes played by Austin Symphony Orchestra.
Dates: Now through Wednesday, December 23
Recommended ages: All
Tickets: From $44
2015 Holiday Film Series at Paramount Theatre
This annual movie tradition at the Paramount Theatre continues this year with screenings of Meet Me in St. Louis (December 8), Home Alone (December 14), Die Hard (December 15), It's a Wonderful Life (December 16), Miracle on 34th Street (December 17), and White Christmas (December 18). This will be the iconic theater's 100th Christmas in Austin, so expect even more decadent decorations and cheerful times.
Dates: Tuesday, December 8 through Friday, December 18
Recommended ages: All
Tickets: $11 for adults; $6 for children 12 and under
Of Mice and Music: A Jazz Nutcracker
You may have seen The Nutcracker, but you've never seen it quite like this before. The Tapestry Dance Company is going all out at the Long Center with this jazzy, modern rendition of the epic Christmas story.
Dates: Thursday, December 10 through Sunday, December 20
Recommended ages: All
Tickets: From $23
Peter and the Wolf
This is another one of those "modern takes on a classic tale" — this time from a popular local band. Austin's own Mother Falcon has composed and will perform the score to this stunning puppet musical from Lionheart Youth Theatre. You won't want to miss the world premiere at Stateside at the Paramount.
Date: Friday, December 11
Recommended ages: 8 and up
Tickets: $16 to $37
A Winter Spectacular
The Austin School for the Performing Arts is proud to present the ninth annual showcase of all of their talented and hard-working students, taking place at Stateside at the Paramount. Performances range from dancing to singing to visual art.
Date: Wednesday, December 16
Recommended ages: 12 and up
Tickets: $20 for adults; $15 for children and senior citizens
Carolyn Wonderland and Guy Forsyth in concert
Enjoy classic holiday tunes with a Texas twist that can only be pulled off by these two amazing musicians. There will be a little bit of country, a little bit of blues, and a whole lot of cheer at the Long Center when Wonderland and Forsyth take the stage.
Dates: Tuesday, December 22 and Wednesday, December 23
Recommended ages: All
Tickets: From $39