Magical Holiday Shows Not to be Missed
So it’s definitely the holidays again as, well, one trip into Fred Meyer and you can’t miss it…sparkly trees, ornaments, red and green candy and more. So, how to sort it all out? What to do? Well, I don’t have all of those answers, but I can help a bit with the last one. Most certainly there are some key events/shows around the holidays here in PDX that aren’t to be missed. Here’s a short list of some of the best (and most ideal for getting you into the “holiday spirit”):
The Nutcracker
The production of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker by Oregon Ballet Theater is a crucial, holiday event. Few other performances harken the holidays like this one. Set in the Keller theater, this classic features elaborate costumes and incredible music by the OBT’s live orchestra (only at some shows, so check on this). Running for 2 hours, there is also a 90-minute version better set for small children (see below).
Details
Dec. 7-26
2 and 7:30 p.m. performances (dependent on date)
Tickets: $35-$146
Keller Auditorium
222 SW Clay Ave.
503-222-5538
Online: obt.org
Nutcracker Tea
First-timers (kids) may be better set with this shorter, 90-minute version of the Nutcracker. Local, non-profit Northwest Dance Theater puts on this shorter show, complete with beautiful costumes and amazing choreography by June Taylor-Dixon. Each year this show sells out fast, so don’t hesitate! This show is great for kids 4 and up.
Details
Dec. 14-22
2 and 7 p.m. performances (dependent on date)
Tickets: $19-$35
PCC Sylvania Performing Arts Center
12000 SW 49th Ave.
Online: nwdt.org
Pioneer Courthouse Square Tree Lighting Ceremony
Long a tradition in Portland, Pioneer Square tree lighting is a marvel. In this land of big trees, well, each year we get a big, 75-foot Douglas Fir right in the middle of town. Decorated with over 14,000 lights, this is one tree you want to see “get lit.” Hot chocolate and a community sing-along add firmly to this holiday-spirit-infusing experience. Oh, and it’s free!!!
Details
Nov. 29th
5:30 – 6:30p.m.
Free
Pioneer Square
701 SW 6th Ave.
503-223-1613
Online: TheSquarePDX.org
ZooZoo
Not everything has to be holiday-themed around the holidays! Thus, returning this year is most definitely “furry” ZooZoo. Recommended for ages 3 and up, the Imago Theater delivers this great show once again featuring a cast of feathered and furry creatures. Stories are brought to life via wonderful choreography and acrobatics. And while not quite of the cirque level…this is one great show sure to please you and your little ones.
Details
Dec. 13- Jan. 5
Tickets: $14.20-$30.20
Imago Theatre
17 SE 8 Ave.
Online: imagotheatre.com
Jingle Bear
For 31 years the Girlchoir four ensembles (ages 5-18) have been treating Portland to their wonderful performances. This winter, enjoy these young singers for the Jingle Bear concert. This concert includes a sing-a-long (great for the kids). Yet most inspiring is the young age of the performers. This is one great event not to miss.
Details
Jingle Bear: Dec. 14, 3 p.m.
Holiday Concert: Dec. 21, 3 p.m.
Tickets: girlchoirinfo@gmail.com or 503-226-6162
$17-$21
Zion Lutheran Church
1015 SW 18th
503-226-6162
Online: girlchoir.com
Enjoy!!!