In continuation with our look into holiday-themed events and performances around New York City, this week we’re diving into musical performances that will put a smile on the face of even the most Scrooge-inclined, anti-holiday curmudgeon among us. New York City is home to some of the world’s most renowned musicians, singers, and dancers whose undeniable talents are on display over the holidays. December is a prime time to take in some of the city’s fantastic musical and cultural offerings. We’ve culled a selection of some of the best holiday musical events, running the gamut from historical to modern this year.
A Christmas Carol the Musical
The timeless holiday classic about change, kindness, community, and ultimately, forgiveness is brought to life on stage with heart-warming musical numbers. The set for this holiday musical has been created with British pantomime-inspired design, which adds flair to the beloved Dickens story. Will Ebenezer Scrooge see the errors of his ways and make a new life for himself and for his township? Find out through music, song, and dance this year! This musical version is adapted by Sgouros and Bell and is in its 11th year with rave reviews.
December 1 – 30, 2019
Players Theatre
115 Mac Dougal Street (between W 3rd and Bleeker)
New York, New York 10012
Richmond Town
Take a jaunt outside of Manhattan to the historic Staten Island community of Richmond Town for some holiday nostalgia. Here, you’ll be transported back in time to the days before cars, freeways, and our fast-paced lifestyle. In Richmond Town, the past comes alive as visitors are welcomed to stroll through a bygone era in the village. Actors in costumes roleplay life from the 19th century. Take a carriage ride to see the town’s holiday light displays (the annual town tree has over 2,000 feet of lights,) learn how to make old-fashioned decorations, as well as listen to an effusive choir of carols. Visit the Bennet House where ancient Chanukah traditions are brought to life, or stop by The Basket Maker’s house where Christmas is celebrated with traditional Methodist Hymns. Last but not least, enjoy a visit with Santa and shop the fair for gifts. Reservations are required. Candlelit tours are offered Saturday, December 14 and Saturday, December 21st. Other tours are available daily.
Historic Richmond Town
441 Clarke Ave
Staten Island, New York 10306
(718)-351-1611
Harlem Gospel Holiday Celebration
Infuse some joy into the holiday season with the expressive notes and monumental vocals of gospel music. The renowned Harlem Gospel Choir of Mt. Olivet Baptist Church in Harlem will perform in an hour-long celebration on both Christmas eve and Christmas day.
December 24-25, 2019
Harlem Gospel Choir
Mt. Olivet Baptist Church
Harlem, New York
The New York Pops at Carnegie Hall
Carnegie Hall has an impressive line up of holiday musicians this season, among them are The New York Pops. The Pops is the largest independent pops orchestra in the U.S. and the only professional symphonic specializing in popular music. On December 20, they will work their magic on classic holiday tunes in an annual holiday celebration with jazz star Tony DeSare and stage legend Capathia Jenkins. The duo will reprise favorites such as “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” Ella Fitzgerald’s “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town,” “Let it Snow,” “Eight Days of Light,” and more.
Friday, December 20, 2019
8 pm
https://www.carnegiehall.org/Calendar/2019/12/20/The-New-York-Pops-0800PM
Also at Carnegie Hall this January, catch The New York Pops as they perform the famous works of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II with a concert of covers called Find Your Dreams. The event features songs from all eleven of the Rogers and Hammerstein duo’s classic musicals including, Oklahoma!, Carousel, South Pacific, The King and I, and The Sound of Music. This is an amazing opportunity to catch some of the “best of” songs from the most popular musicals of all time. This is obviously not a holiday-specific show, but it was too good not to mention when talking about the New York Pops.
Friday, January 24, 2020
8 pm
Carnegie Hall
881 7th Ave
New York, NY 10019
https://www.carnegiehall.org/calendar/2020/01/24/the-new-york-pops-0800pm
http://www.newyorkpops.org/
Washington Square Caroling
For the last 94 years, The Washington Square Association has sponsored caroling under the iconic New York Washington Square Arch. This year The Rob Susman Brass Quartet will accompany carolers (all are welcome to join in, the WSA will distribute songbooks) as they sing familiar tunes such as Peace on Earth and Goodwill to Men. The majestic 45-foot Washington Square Christmas tree will also be lit for both caroling evenings, adding to the bucolic but festive mood.
December 24, 2019
5pm-6pm
Washington Square Park
5 Ave, Waverly Pl., W. 4 St. and Macdougal St.
New York, New York 10011
http://www.washingtonsquarenyc.org/events/2019/12/24/christmas-eve-caroling-myf7g
Staying in New York City – About The Lombardy Hotel
The Lombardy Hotel is just as iconic to Midtown Manhattan as many of the other historic and cultural attractions in the area. Not only are our rooms comfortable and tasteful, we provide amenities such as a full salon, coffee shop, and exercise room. We also host the American Cut Midtown steakhouse, perfect for a business lunch or dinner on a special occasion. We look forward to hosting you.
