By Tricia White
Holiday-themed performances are a beloved tradition for families in North Texas. DART takes you to these plays and musical performances that celebrate the wonder of the season.
The Nutcracker is a much-loved holiday tradition featuring indelible characters such as the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Mouse King, Texas Ballet Theater’s classic production of this seasonal favorite has two runs. The first run of the performances is from Nov. 25-Dec. 4 at the AT&T Performing Arts Center, walkable from Pearl/Arts District Station. The second is from Dec. 9-24 at Fort Worth’s Bass Performance Hall – just take the TRE to Fort Worth Central Station and get on the bus route known as The Dash.
Christmas with C.S. Lewis follows the great writer’s spiritual journey in a powerful, intimate evening of theater. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and you’ll even discover how Lewis’ journey was influenced by an encounter with J.R.R. Tolkien. The show runs from Dec. 14-17 at the Eisemann Center – right across the plaza from Galatyn Park Station.
A Christmas Carol rejoices in the holiday spirit with spectacular sets, flying ghosts and rousing music. The crowd-pleaser plays Nov. 25-Dec. 24 at the Wyly Theater, a 7-minute walk from Pearl/Arts District Station.
Irving Holidays at Heritage kicks off Dec. 3 with a nighttime parade through downtown Irving, followed by the city’s annual tree lighting ceremony. The festivities start at 6 p.m. All the way through Dec. 17, you’ll find free family events every Friday and Saturday. The celebration is a short walk from Downtown Irving/Heritage Crossing Station on the Trinity Railway Express (TRE).
Home for the Holidays: Marcia Ball, Carolyn Wonderland, and Shelley King showcases three of Texas’ finest for a rousing night of holiday music. The show happens on Dec. 4 at 8 p.m. at the Kessler Theater. Bus Route 9 gets you within a few blocks, or it’s a mile from the Bishop Arts stop of the Dallas Streetcar – you can stroll and shop in the Bishop Arts District.
The Polyphonic Spree Christmas Show stars Dallas’ premier – and only – rock band/choir/orchestra. The world-famous group, led by front man Tim DeLaughter, puts on a rousing holiday show at 7 p.m. on Dec. 17 at the Majestic Theatre. That’s three blocks from St. Paul Station.
Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland is a must-see event that takes the holidays to new heights. On Dec. 23, prepare to be dazzled by the acrobats, aerialists, and holiday cheer. The show combines the grace and athleticism of world-class circus performers with a musical mix of timeless seasonal favorites. Catch it at Dickies Arena is Fort Worth. Take the Trinity Railway Express to Fort Worth Central Station; from there, take the bus route called The Dash to get to the venue.
A Christmas Carol gets a somewhat different treatment in its Garland production. Full of fun, thrills, and heart, the Company of Rowlett Performers’ version of the holiday classic lets you see the familiar story through a fresh approach. The funny and moving performance happens Dec. 9-17 at the Granville Arts Center – right next to Downtown Garland Station. garlandarts.com
Discover more DARTable adventures at DART.org/DARTable.