2012 Sacramento Holiday Theater Preview
The holidays are just around the corner and what better way to get in the spirit than taking in a theatrical performance? From beloved stories and songs to new twists on classic tales, Sacramento theatre shines this holiday season. There is truly something for everyone to enjoy. Here are just a few of the many performances coming to the Sacramento area this holiday season.
(credit: sutterstreettheatre.com)
"Holiday in the Hills"
Sutter Street Theatre
717 Sutter St.
Folsom, CA 95630
(916) 353-1001
www.sutterstreettheatre.com
Dates: November 30 through December 23
One of Folsom's favorite holiday traditions returns to Sutter Street Theatre for its seventh annual performance. The show is set in late 1800's Folsom and features holiday music favorites and characters who lived or visited Folsom during that time. Each year brings new surprises, so even if you've seen the show before, it is definitely worth seeing again. According to The Folsom Telegraph, this is a top-notch production that will get your toes tapping. The show is perfect for kids of all ages, so bring the family and step back in time this holiday season.
Related: Best Theater Companies In Sacramento
(credit: dmtc.org)
Alan Menken's "A Christmas Carol"
Davis Musical Theatre
607 Pena Drive
Davis, CA 95618
(530) 756-3682
www.dmtc.org
Dates: November 16 through December 9
Broadway comes to the Davis Musical Theatre this holiday season with a musical re-telling of the classic Dickens story, "A Christmas Carol." Featuring songs written by composer Alan Menken and award-winning lyricist Lynn Ahrens, this musical was hailed by The New York Times as "spirited entertainment!" The classic holiday tale centers on Scrooge, the cold, stingy recluse who transforms on Christmas Eve to a benevolent, compassionate man after being visited by the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future. In spite of the music and extravaganza of this production, the emotional power and spirit of the story remains, making this a must-see event this holiday season.
(credit: sacramentochoral.com)
Wells Fargo Home for the Holidays
Sacramento Choral Society & Orchestra
Sacramento Memorial Auditorium
1515 J St.
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 808-5181
www.sacramentochoral.com
Date: December 8
Ring in the holiday season with a Sacramento tradition. Wells Fargo Home for the Holidays, presented by the Sacramento Choral Society & Orchestra, will be a delight for all. This popular performance features classic choral orchestral holiday songs, a candlelight procession and an audience singalong. The performance will also feature the premiere of a new work commissioned for the Sacramento Children's Chorus and the SCSO in celebration of the SCC's 20th anniversary. Capture the holiday spirit with beautiful music.
(credit: capstage.org)
"It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play"
Capital Stage Company
2215 J St.
Sacramento, CA 95816
(916) 995-5464
www.capstage.org
Dates: December 18 through December 24
Is there anything more reminiscent of the holiday season than watching Jimmy Stewart as George Bailey recapture his lost spirit and remember what is most important in life? This December, Capital Stage presents "It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play." Inspired by the movie, this play is performed as a 1940's live radio broadcast in front of a studio audience. Watch as five actors bring to life the dozens of familiar characters including George, Mary, Mr. Potter and Zuzu. The Sacramento Press called last year's production "wonderful holiday entertainment." Don't miss this unique telling of the classic American film.
(credit: sacballet.org)
"The Nutcracker"
Sacramento Ballet Company
Community Center Theater
1301 L St.
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 552-5800
www.sacballet.org
Dates: December 7 through December 23
No holiday theater season would be complete without "The Nutcracker." Ron Cunningham, artistic director for the Sacramento Ballet Company, celebrates his 25th anniversary season this year with a silver celebration of the beloved ballet. Over 500 Sacramento-region youth will join the professional company in the annual production. Each year, thousands of patrons watch as Clara battles the evil Mouse King, is saved by the Nutcracker Prince and travels through the Snowflake Forest to the Kingdom of Sweets, where she meets the Sugar Plum Fairy. "The Nutcracker" is an iconic part of holiday traditions and there is nothing like the Sacramento Ballet Company's production of this magical tale.
Related: Best Dance Companies In Sacramento
Karen Boruff is a freelance writer living in Sacramento. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.