Holiday cheer needed stat? Dive into this list of can’t-miss Christmas shows

holiday-cheer-needed-stat?-dive-into-this-list-of-can’t-miss-christmas-shows

You know how a cold snap for us is around 70 degrees? Yes, it’s truly paradise. But that sunny subtropicalness can make it a little tricky to get into the Christmas vibe.

After all, the best we can do for a winter wonderland is white sand beaches, with SoFlo Santa rocking a tank-top, shorts, flip-flops and shades.

If that’s got you feeling all Grinchy, here’s something to soothe those yuletide yearnings: a roundup of holiday-themed shows in Palm Beach and Broward counties.

Please note: Ticket prices may not include fees and taxes. Also, we will continue to refresh this list, so you may want to keep checking back. Enjoy the shows!

”TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE …’ BY CIRQUE DU SOLEIL

Based on Clement Clarke Moore’s iconic poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” Cirque du Soleil’s first holiday show is making its SoFlo debut with this West Palm Beach run.
WHEN: Through Nov. 30
WHERE: Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach
COST: $57.50-$155.25
INFORMATION: 561-832-7469; kravis.org

The Kinjaz Dance Crew from 'Twas the Night Before… by Cirque du Soleil, which is making its South Florida debut Nov. 20-30 at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach. (Kyle Flubacker, MSG Entertainment/Courtesy)
Kyle Flubacker, MSG Entertainment

The Kinjaz Dance Crew will perform in “Twas the Night Before …” by Cirque du Soleil, which is coming to the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach. (Kyle Flubacker, MSG Entertainment/Courtesy)

BOCA BALLET THEATRE PRESENTS “THE NUTCRACKER”

Clara’s dream unfolds as the Nutcracker Prince, Mouse King, and Sugar Plum Fairy all come to life in this version of the Christmas classic created by co-artistic director Dan Guin. Special guest artists include Zimmi Coker and Carlos Gonzalez, both of the American Ballet Theatre. Also, following the 2 p.m. matinee performances on Saturday and Sunday, there will be The Gingerbread Ball where children can meet the cast and get a good bag.
WHEN:

  • 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28
  • 2 and 7:20 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29
  • 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 30

WHERE: Olympic Heights Performing Arts Theater, 20101 Lyons Road, Boca Raton
COST:

  • $25-$55
  • The Gingerbread Ball is $12 per child

INFO: 561-995-0709; bocaballet.org

‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’

The Wick Theatre will produce an elaborate staging of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” with a large cast and a score by Broadway legends Alan Menken and Lynn Ahrens
WHEN: Nov. 28-Dec. 24
WHERE: The Wick Theatre & Museum Club, 7901 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton
COST: $89-$119
INFORMATION: thewick.org

Ed Kemper as Scrooge in the musical version of A Christmas Carol at The Wick Theatre in Boca Raton Nov. 28-Dec. 24. (Amy Pasquantonio/Courtesy)
Amy Pasquantonio

Ed Kemper as Scrooge in the musical version of “A Christmas Carol” at The Wick Theatre in Boca Raton Nov. 28-Dec. 24. (Amy Pasquantonio/Courtesy)

SYMPHONY OF THE AMERICAS PRESENTS ‘JUST LIKE THE ONES WE USED TO KNOW’ HOLIDAY CONCERT

Conducted by Luke Frazier, this holiday concert will feature Laurie Jennings, the Emmy-winning TV news reporter and former WPLG-TV anchor, as well as guest vocalists Nova Payton (sang with Stevie Wonder, Roberta Flack), Eric Ulloa (Gloria Estefan musical, “On Your Feet”) and Amanda McGovern (winner of American Pops Orchestra’s NextGen Vocal Competition).
WHEN: 7:45 p.m. Dec. 1-2
WHERE: Amaturo Theater at Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale
COST: $64.90-$118
INFORMATION: sota.org; browardcenter.org

ONE JOYOUS NIGHT GOSPEL CONCERT

Grammy Award-winning and gospel music superstar — and co-star of the Broadway musical “Hell’s Kitchen” — Yolanda Adams is the headliner for this holiday show. Soul/R&B-gospel ensemble Sensere will also perform. The event is presented by the City of Lauderhill as well as WHQT Hot 105 and WEDR 99Jamz radio stations.
WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2
WHERE: Lauderhill Performing Arts Center, 3800 NW 11th Place, Lauderhill
COST: $85-$125
INFORMATION: lpacfl.com

FLORIDA GRAND OPERA’S ‘SILENT NIGHT’

Based on Christian Carion’s Academy Award-nominated 2005 movie “Joyeux Noël,” this opera recounts the extraordinary moment during World War I when Scottish, French and German soldiers laid down their weapons to share a night of peace. The production is a team effort between Florida Grand Opera (FGO), The Atlanta Opera and Opera Carolina. “Launching our season with ‘Silent Night’ is deeply symbolic,” FGO general director Maria Todaro said. “It reminds us that even in times of division and despair, there is always a moment when humanity prevails. Music becomes the common thread that binds, heals and restores.”
WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 4 and Dec. 6
WHERE: Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale
COST: $54-$215
INFORMATION: 954-462-0222; fgo.org

BALLET PALM BEACH PRESENTS ‘THE NUTCRACKER’

The professional ballet company of the Palm Beaches and the Treasure Coast presents this Christmas classic where Marie is spirited away for adventures in an enchanted winter wonderland.
WHEN:

  • 7 p.m. Dec. 5
  • 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 6
  • 1 and 5 p.m. Dec. 7

WHERE: Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach
COST: $28.75-$143.75
INFO: kravis.org

The timeless Christmas classic returns during Ballet Palm Beach's The Nutcracker at Kravis Center for the Performing Arts Dec. 5-7. (Steven Caras /Courtesy)
Steven Caras

The timeless Christmas classic returns during Ballet Palm Beach’s The Nutcracker at Kravis Center for the Performing Arts Dec. 5-7. (Steven Caras /Courtesy)

”TIS THE SEASON’ CHOIR AND ORCHESTRA FUNDRAISER CONCERT

With an ensemble of more than 150 musicians, this benefit concert from the Visual and Performing Arts Department at Broward College will spotlight holiday classics, movie favorites and singalongs.
WHEN: 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 6
WHERE: Bailey Hall at Broward College, 3501 Davie Road, Davie
COST: $15
INFORMATION: eventbrite.com

South Florida Symphony Orchestra will perform Handel's Messiah and Holiday Pops favorites at The Parker in Fort Lauderdale on Dec. 6. (Steven Shires/Courtesy)
Steven Shires

South Florida Symphony Orchestra will perform Handel’s Messiah and Holiday Pops favorites at The Parker in Fort Lauderdale on Dec. 6. (Steven Shires/Courtesy)

SOUTH FLORIDA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA’S PERFORMANCE OF HANDEL’S MESSIAH AND HOLIDAY POPS

Led by Sebrina María Alfonso, the South Florida Symphony Orchestra will perform the Christmas portion of Handel’s “Messiah,” which culminates in the “Hallelujah” chorus, as well as a collection of modern Holiday Pops favorites. There will be a pre-concert presentation with Alan Mason 30 minutes before the concert featuring an in-depth conversation and insights about the works and composer.
WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 6
WHERE: The Parker, 707 NE Eighth St., Fort Lauderdale
COST: $41.30-$147.50
INFORMATION: parkerplayhouse.com

South Florida Symphony Orchestra will perform Handel's Messiah and Holiday Pops favorites at The Parker in Fort Lauderdale on Dec. 6. (Steven Shires/Courtesy)
Steven Shires

South Florida Symphony Orchestra will perform Handel’s Messiah and Holiday Pops favorites at The Parker in Fort Lauderdale on Dec. 6. (Steven Shires/Courtesy)

SERAPHIC FIRE’S ”TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS’

The Miami-based professional a cappella choral ensemble will present its signature candle-lit Christmas program throughout South Florida. “Somehow the music of the Christmas season brings that sensation of eagerness and hopeful wonder back to all of us, whether we’re 5, 55 or 95,” conductor James Bass said. “That’s what we will be trying to capture in this program. Seraphic Fire’s holiday concert is the perfect way to start the season.” In addition to Fort Lauderdale and Boca Raton, performances will take place in Coral Gables, Miami, Cutler Bay and Naples.
WHEN/WHERE:

  • 7:30 p.m. Dec. 6 at All Saints Episcopal Church, 333 Tarpon Drive, Fort Lauderdale
  • 7 p.m. Dec. 10 at St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church, 100 NE Mizner Blvd., Boca Raton

COST:

  • $68 general admission; $85-$95 reserved (Fort Lauderdale)
  • $65 general admission; $85-$95 reserved (Boca Raton)

INFORMATION: 305-285-9060; seraphicfire.org

The Florida Intergenerational Orchestra's members range in age from 8 to 96. The orchestra will perform their Holiday Extravaganza Concert on Sunday, Dec. 7 in Boca Raton. (FLIOA/Courtesy)
FLIOA

The Florida Intergenerational Orchestra’s members range in age from 8 to 96. The orchestra will perform their Holiday Extravaganza Concert on Sunday, Dec. 7 in Boca Raton. (FLIOA/Courtesy)

FLORIDA INTERGENERATIONAL ORCHESTRA’S HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA CONCERT

Now in its 20th season, the Florida Intergenerational Orchestra — as the name spells out — unites children, parents, grandparents and retirees into one music group, with members ranging in age from 8 to 96. “This concert is all about joy, connection and community,” said conductor Lorraine Marks-Field. “It’s wonderful to see generations performing side by side, sharing the gift of music together.”
WHEN: 3 p.m. Dec. 7
WHERE: O’Shea Hall at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 22094 Lyons Road, Boca Raton
COST: $23.18-$44.52
INFORMATION: 561-922-3134; flioa.org

QUIRKY CHRISTMAS CABARET

South Florida-based entertainer Jennifer McClain returns for a third consecutive year with her mix of classic Christmas tunes, comedy, singalongs and a few surprise guests.
WHEN: 8 p.m. Dec. 9-11
WHERE: The Foundry, 2306 N. Dixie Highway, Wilton Manors
COST: $37.50-$53.50
INFORMATION: ronnielarsen.com

CHRIS MACDONALD’S MEMORIES OF ELVIS ‘MERRY CHRISTMAS BABY’ DINNER SHOW

Elvis Presley tribute artist Chris MacDonald brings the special holiday edition of his show performing of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s most popular renditions of Christmas songs. Tickets include a three-course meal.
WHEN: 8 p.m. Dec. 12
WHERE: The Paddock Restaurant at Palm Beach Kennel Club racetrack,1111 Congress Ave., West Palm Beach
COST: $80.89-$94.49
INFORMATION: pbkennelclub.com

Soulful Christmas will take place at the African American Research Library and Cultural Center in Fort Lauderdale Dec. 12 and 13. (AARLCC/Courtesy)
AARLCC

Soulful Christmas will take place at the African American Research Library and Cultural Center in Fort Lauderdale Dec. 12 and 13. (AARLCC/Courtesy)

SOULFUL CHRISTMAS

This weekend celebration of music, art and cultural heritage will transform Fort Lauderdale’s African American Research Library and Cultural Center into a unique take on a tropical winter wonderland.

  • A free “Soulful Christmas Concert” with Hued Songs from 7-8:30 p.m. Dec. 12 will feature artists such as Ja’Nia Harden (jazz/R&B), Erron Cooper (gospel singer), Brittany Graham (operatic soprano) and Wilkie Ferguson III (Broadway/TV performer)
  • A “Soulful Christmas Community Day of Celebration” from 1-5:30 p.m. Dec. 13 will include holiday storytelling and singalongs, LEGO Christmas Ornament Making, Ugly Christmas Sweater Decorating, Super Soul Steppers performance, gift giveaways (while supplies last), a Hued Songs concert, Delou Africa performance, face painting, holiday crafts for all ages and more.

WHERE: African American Research Library and Cultural Center, 2650 Sistrunk Blvd., Fort Lauderdale
COST: Free
INFORMATION: broward.org

Soulful Christmas will take place at the African American Research Library and Cultural Center in Fort Lauderdale Dec. 12 and 13. (AARLCC/Courtesy)
AARLCC

Soulful Christmas will take place at the African American Research Library and Cultural Center in Fort Lauderdale Dec. 12 and 13. (AARLCC/Courtesy)

PENTATONIX: CHRISTMAS IN THE CITY TOUR

The Grammy-winning vocal group is bringing their holiday concert tour to SoFlo featuring the five a cappella singers (including baritone Scott Hoying, who twinkled his toes on the latest season of “Dancing with the Stars”).
WHEN: 7 p.m. Dec. 15
WHERE: Amerant Bank Arena, 1 Panther Parkway, Sunrise
COST: $52-$522
INFORMATION: amerantbankarena.com

PATRICK LAMB’S A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS TOUR

Saxophonist Patrick Lamb performs live as the iconic Charlie Brown animated  TV Christmas special plays on a screen in the background. In addition to his band, Lamb will be joined by a Delray Beach student choir for this family-friendly holiday concert.
WHEN: 5-8 p.m. Dec. 17
WHERE: The Amphitheatre at Old School Square, 51 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach
COST: $27.37 (bring your own lawn chair)-$266.25
INFORMATION: downtowndelraybeach.com

New City Players presents
Ryan Arnst

New City Players presents “It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play,” reimagined as a radio broadcast with Foley sound effects and an ensemble bringing dozens of characters to the stage. (Ryan Arnst/Courtesy)

‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE: A LIVE RADIO PLAY’

New City Players has a new take on a Christmas classic with Frank Capra’s iconic movie reimagined as a radio play, complete with live Foley sound effects and a cast of five actors voicing almost three dozen characters. “Most people are familiar with ‘It’s a Wonderful Life,’” said producing artistic director Tim Davis. “While the style and venue of this show will feel fresh, at its heart the story remains the same: A man who has felt like he has lost everything realizes that what is most important in his life all along has been his community.” Doors open an hour before showtime for cocoa, carols and a curated menu from The Palm Cafe at General Provision in Fort Lauderdale.
WHEN: Dec. 18-21
WHERE: General Provision Downtown, 300 SW 1st Ave., Suite 155, Fort Lauderdale
COST: $30-$35
INFORMATION: 954-376-6114; newcityplayers.org

ARTS BALLET THEATRE OF FLORIDA’S ‘THE NUTCRACKER’

This production set to Tchaikovsky’s score is choreographed by artistic director Vladimir Issaev. The performance will spotlight the company’s professional dancers in key roles, as well as a community cast of children from Issaev’s School of Classical Ballet and local character artists.
WHEN:

  • 10:30 a.m. Dec. 18 (Smart Stage Matinee Series)
  • 7 p.m. Dec. 19-20
  • 3 p.m. Dec. 21

WHERE: The Parker, 707 NE Eighth St., Fort Lauderdale
COST:

  • $31.27-57.53
  • $10.01 per ticket for Smart Stage Matinee Series

INFORMATION: parkerplayhouse.com

SARGE’S CHRISTMAS-CHANUKAH-NEW YEAR’S EXTRAVAGANZA

Standup comedian Sarge brings his holiday-themed act back to Boca Raton, where he is a longtime favorite. Known not only for comedy but also for his vocals and self-taught virtuoso piano skills, the Miami Beach-born Sarge grew up the adopted biracial son of a Jewish couple in Brooklyn.
WHEN: Dec. 24-25, Dec. 30-31 and Jan. 1
WHERE: The Wick Theatre & Museum Club, 7901 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton
COST: $80-$100
INFORMATIONthewick.org

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