This month, we’ll be highlighting holiday-themed events around New York City. If you’re lucky enough to spend a holiday season in New York, take advantage of some of the limited-run events and cultural activities to put you in a holiday headspace. New York has it all: the performances are beyond magical, the costumes are dazzling, the dialogue spirited and witty, and the music is expressive!
In this week’s blog post, we’re looking at some of New York’s world-class theatre, ballet, and classical music performances, as well as one delicious parody. Don’t hold back, dig into the rich cultural buffet that is New York City during the holidays.
A Christmas Carol
There’s nothing more Christmas-time than Charles Dickens’ classic tale performed on the stage, live in New York. This year, distinguished actor, Campbell Scott stars and Tony winners play supporting roles. Follow along as the tight-fisted, miserly Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by the three ghosts of Christmas who attempt to show him the error of his money-hungry ways. Full of Victorian charm and noted as a particularly joyful adaptation, this year’s production should be full of fun surprises within the familiar tale.
Through Jan 5, 2020
Lyceum Theatre
149 West 45th St
New York, NY 10036
https://www.nyc.com/broadway_tickets/a_christmas_carol.1618891/
Orchestra Performances
Nothing tempers holiday stress better than the harmonious sounds of classical music. Make an event of it and bring the family to share in the music of some of New York’s most talented orchestras as they perform well-known classics.
The New York String Orchestra
Listen to classic string compositions, Mendelssohn, Vivaldi, Beethoven played by the New York String Orchestra at the historic Carnegie Hall.
December 24, 2019
Carnegie Hall
881 7th Ave
New York, NY 10019
Holiday Brass New York Philharmonic
For something more holiday-specific, enjoy the Holiday Brass and Percussion with the New York Philharmonic at the Lincoln Center.
December 15, 2019
Lincoln Center
20 Lincoln Center
New York, New York 10023
Radio City Christmas Spectacular
Dating back to 1933, The Christmas Spectacular is an amazing holiday event with singing, dancing and costume changes galore, showcasing the 36 effervescent Rockettes. The holiday show includes a nativity scene with real camels, sheep, and donkeys; a vignette of The Nutcracker Ballet; Santa with his reindeer; and an exciting new light show with 100 drones. Not to be overshadowed, the costumes alone are worth the admission; each outfit is adorned with over 3,000 Swarovski crystals.
Through January 5, 2020
Radio City Music Hall
1260 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10020
Twas the Night Before…
“Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.”
Most of us recognize the famous opening lines of this Christmas poem, but just when you think you know what to expect, Cirque du Soleil pulls off an entirely new interpretation of the classic. The world’s most famous circus is putting on a spectacular rendition of Twas the Night Before Christmas with an inventive focus on what really goes on “all through the house.” Reimagining the circus with bedazzling costumes, incredible feats, dances and more, this awe-inspiring show is sure to be one for the holiday memory banks. This is the Cirque du Soleil troupe’s first-ever holiday-themed production with an emphasis on acts of kindness and joy.
December 12-29, 2019
The Theatre at Madison Square Garden
Madison Square Garden
4 Penn Plaza
New York, NY 10001
The Nutcracker
A holiday theatre list in New York certainly wouldn’t be complete without a nod to The Nutcracker Ballet. Tchaikovsky’s Christmas-time ballet is a classic, heartwarming tale brought to life by famed choreographer, George Balanchine. From the first familiar tinkling notes right up through the bellowing, dramatic fight scenes, this romantic, vividly imagined tale, is top-notch holiday fun. The New York City Ballet hosts some of the world’s most talented ballet dancers and watching them on stage at the Lincoln Center is the experience of a lifetime.
Through January 5, 2020
David H. Koch Theater
20 Lincoln Center
New York, New York 10023
Love Actually? The Unauthorized Musical Parody
The business of the holidays (shopping, parties, hosting, family time, etc.) can get to be a bit much and when that overwhelming feeling hits, it’s always nice to pop in a movie and relax on the couch. A December favorite is the romantic comedy, Love Actually, which follows several different characters through the joys and struggles of a holiday season in London. Now there’s a new musical in New York that spoofs the hit movie. Whether you love or hate the 2003 original, you’ll recognize the jokes and laugh along with this musical parody.
Through January 14, 2020
The Theatre Center
210 W 50th St
New York, NY 10019
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.
