You’ve seen the tree. You’ve been ice skating. Maybe you’ve even taken a Selfie with Santa, but it really doesn’t feel like Christmas until you take a seat inside a cozy theater and watch one of the amazing holiday performances happening in Downtown Phoenix this season.
We’ve sorted through all the performances happening downtown and made a list, and yes, we even checked it twice and wrapped it up nicely in a bow. So now is your time to unwrap the magic and squeeze in some holiday cheer before it’s too late.
A Bloody Mary Christmas – Space 55
Final show December 17
A holiday musical for adults who hate the holidays and musicals — A Bloody Mary Christmas tells the tale of three Sun City retirees who sing, dance, and drink themselves silly as they battle a heartless homeowner’s association trying to evict them on Christmas Eve.
Black Nativity – Helen K. Mason Performing Arts Center
Final shows December 17 & 18
Experience the sounds and energy of gospel, blues, jazz and funk music as the Troupe’s talented singers, actors and dancers explore themes of cultural identity, pride and unity of the African American community.
Frances Smith Cohen’s Snow Queen – Herberger Theater Center
Final shows December 17 & 18
Get swept away in the snow by the stunning fairy tale which was the original inspiration for Disney’s Frozen. Don’t miss this classic story by Hans Christian Andersen set to music by Sergei Prokofiev.
The Nutcracker – Phoenix Symphony Hall
Dec. 17-22
Experience the magic of the season with a must-see holiday classic: The Nutcracker. Watch in awe as Ballet Arizona’s talented performers take you to a world of beauty and wonder as they dance to Tchaikovsky’s famous score.
Themes and Variations… ‘Tis the Season – Lunch Time Theater – Herberger Theater Center
Dec. 17-22
Join colleagues and friends for an out-of-the-box lunch time holiday performance: ‘Tis the Season. In this new musical revue a group of long-time friends gather for their annual Christmas party to celebrate the season through stories and songs.
A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail – Valley Youth Theater
December 17-23
Embark on a Christmas adventure with beloved characters Christoper Robin, Eeyore, Piglet, Tigger and Pooh in “A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail.” This musical celebration has become a beloved Christmas tradition in Downtown Phoenix and offers fun and silliness for the whole family.
The Elves & The Shoemaker – Great Arizona Puppet Theater
Dec. 21-24
Feel like a kid again as you watch this adorable holiday favorite featuring Santa’s elves as they come to help a poor shoemaker and his wife.
A Christmas Carol: The Musical – Herberger Theater Center
December 16-24
Capture the holiday spirit through the joy and merriment of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol as you travel back in time with Ebenezer Scrooge as he rediscovers the importance of family, friendship and love.
Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker – Comerica Theater
December 22
Witness true Russian flair in the unique telling of the classic story featuring Masha (Clara) and her Nutcracker Doll that’s brought to life in a dreamlike dance.
Twist Your Dickens – Phoenix Theater
December 17-26
This is not your average A Christmas Carol — get a heaping helping of holiday hilarity in this interactive adult comedy. The fast-paced, irreverent take on the beloved holiday story is also complete with uproarious audience participation.