Whether you’re ready for it or not, Christmas is on the way, and for many families, the season would not be complete without attending a special holiday performance, like The Nutcracker or a Mannheim Steamroller concert.
If you’re one of those families, or just looking for something fun and festive to do, you have plenty of holiday shows to choose from in Scottsdale and throughout the Valley. Here are six worth considering:
A Christmas Story: The Musical: The classic movie about a boy who wants a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas comes to the stage—thanks in part to producer Peter Billingsley, the film’s original Ralphie. Just like the movie, set in 1940s Indiana, this version features a kooky leg lamp, outrageous pink bunny pajamas, and a triple-dog-dare to lick a freezing flagpole. A Christmas Story runs November 24-29 at ASU Gammage Auditorium. Floor tickets begin at $67 and go up to $125; balcony tickets start at $30.
The Nutcracker: Ballet Arizona partners with the Phoenix Symphony to tell the tale of Clara, a girl who receives a magical nutcracker on Christmas Eve. When the clock strikes twelve, the nutcracker comes to life and, after a war between mice and tin soldiers, leads Clara into the enchanted Land of Sweets. You can see this family favorite December 11-27 at Symphony Hall for as little as $15.
Mannheim Steamroller: The Mesa Arts Center hosts Mannheim Steamroller, the most successful Christmas music artist/group of all time, on Sunday, December 6 at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. In addition to bringing their modern style to classic Christmas tunes, the group puts on a dazzling multimedia show. Tickets range from $35 to $80.
Sister’s Christmas Catechism: School is back in session as Sister tries to figure who swiped the gold that the three wise men gave to the Baby Jesus—using the latest forensic technology and her uncanny ability to detect guilt—in Sister’s Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi’s Gold. The show is part of the Late Nite Catechism series and runs December 11-20 at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts Center. Tickets start at $39.
Spirit of Christmas: Now in its 28th year, this energetic variety show features more than 100 dancers, a live horse pulling a carriage across stage, a Native American hoop dancer, and special guest performers. Catch one of the six performances at the Chandler Center for the Arts December 12-20. Tickets are $26 to $30 for adults; $27 to $23 for children 12 and under and for seniors 60 and over.
Frances Smith Cohen’s Snow Queen: Presented by Center Dance Ensemble, this rendition of the classic Hans Christian Andersen classic tells the tale of Gerda who embarks on a journey to the Snow Queen’s palace to save her friend, Kai. The popular show returns for its 25th season in the Valley at the Herberger Theater on December 5-20. You can purchase adult tickets for $28. Seniors are $23 and students $14.
