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10 Must-See Holiday Performances in 2018

by Lauren Potter
Arts & Culture Lauren Potter November 29, 2018

It really doesn’t feel like Christmas until you take a seat inside a cozy theater and watch one of the holiday performances happening in Downtown Phoenix this season.
We’ve sorted through 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.

Holiday Pops  Phoenix Symphony Hall
November 30-December 2
Experience one of the Valley’s most beloved holiday traditions, Holiday Pops. A festive concert of seasonal favorites and the ever-popular Holiday Sing-Along, guaranteed to put you and your family in the holiday spirit.

Elf the Musical — Phoenix Theatre
November 30-December 30
This jolly musical is a must for any fan of Buddy the elf, Santa Claus and all things Christmas.

Black Nativity — Helen K. Mason Performing Arts Center
November 30-December 16
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.

A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail — Valley Youth Theater
November 30-December 23
Embark on a Christmas adventure with beloved characters Christopher 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.

Die Hard: A Christmas Story — Playhouse on the Park
November 30-December 29
For those who prefer non-traditional holiday cheer: All Puppet’s Players offers up a puppet Bruce Willis, a battle for Nakatomi Plaza, and tons of pop-culture references to hang nice and cozy over your fireplace.

Frances Smith Cohen’s Snow Queen — Herberger Theater Center
December 1-16
Get swept away in the snow by the stunning fairy tale, which was the original inspiration for Disney’s” Frozen.” This classic story by Hans Christian Andersen set to music by Sergei Prokofiev will be sure to bring some magic to your holidays.

An Irish Christmas — Orpheum Theatre
December 5
Celebrate the great tradition of butter making, chase the wren on St. Stephen’s Day, draw down the half door for spectacular dance, enjoy superb music-making and singing of Christmas carols in an unforgettable Irish night.

Cirque Holiday Spectacular — Phoenix Symphony Hall
December 5-7
Hear the Phoenix Symphony perform holiday favorites like “White Christmas” and “Deck the Halls” as well as beloved movements from masterpieces like Swan Lake, while hula hoops, contortionists, aerialists and jugglers perform on stage… and 40 feet above it.

The North Pole Flamingo — Orpheum Theatre
December 8-9
This heartwarming story about a flamingo born on Christmas Eve and separated from her family, reminds us of importance of family and the magic that the holiday season can unveil.

The Nutcracker — Phoenix Symphony Hall
December 13-24
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.