Best 2015 Holiday-Themed Stage Productions In Pittsburgh
The cultural and rich history of the Pittsburgh area has enough venues to open up the holiday season with a myriad of stage productions for all members of the family. The kids will enjoy the stories behind the shows, and families and friends can relive past and present memories in a comfortable setting at each venue. The dynamic stage performances are ablaze with the sounds of music and thrilling lighting effects. The productions range in all areas of areas of interest, and there are inspirational songs, story lines, costumes, stage sets and dancing performances that will inspire celebrations of the holidays.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts Of Christmas Eve
Consol Energy Center
1001 Fifth Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
(412) 642-1800
www.consolenergycenter.com
Date: Dec 27, 2015 at 3:00p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Don't let the title of the show scare you; for a one day performance, it will be a great holiday tradition to share with the family and friends. There is something for everybody, and it seems like the Trans-Siberian group has songs for the holidays that will keep your foot stamping and body moving. Make sure to get a head start and purchase tickets for this energetic stage production.
Related: Best Karaoke Bars In Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre: The Nutcracker
Benedum Center
237 7th St.
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
(412) 456-6666
www.trustarts.org
Date: Dec 4–27, 2015
Visitors to the Benedum Center are treated to a historical masterpiece, and each seat in the theater offers a great view of any stage production. The precision and perfectly performed ballet is a vital part of "The Nutcracker," and the adept choreography is set with a score from the magic of Tchaikovsky. Families wanting to keep The Nutcracker tradition have opportunities to purchase tickets from the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust. Check for the times of the performances; there are enough options to meet any individual's schedule.
Rudolph The Red- Nosed Reindeer, The Musical
Heinz Hall
600 Penn Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
(412) 392-4900
www.trustarts.org
Date: Dec 22–27, 2015
The song related to this stage production is one that is remembered each time the holiday season beckons family to celebrate together. Kids and those of all ages, including all older members of the family, will see their favorites romp around on the stage in reindeer and character costumes. It is a great story line that teaches about respect and being friends, and the audience will recollect the songs from past experiences on TV. There are diverse characters, and the actors are both younger and older performers, so look for Santa and his troupe of helpers. The show is a tradition throughout the years and gets the ball rolling for preparation for Christmas and beyond. Check the times for the scheduled matinees and evening performances.
A Musical Christmas Carol
Byham Theater
101 6th St.
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
(412) 456-6666
www.trustarts.org
Date: Dec. 4–23, 2015
The Bayham Theater is a snugly warm and comfortable place for the family to watch the musical version of "The Christmas Carol." The characters are the same as the television and animated programs. The stage production is still one that follows the same premise and visits by the ghosts, who appear real, but not too scary, and presents a story that all Tiny Tims and Scrooges will surely understand. Check out the guide, schedule, dates, time and calendar for this special holiday production.
Cirque Dreams: Holidaze
Benedum Center
237 7th St.
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
(412) 456-6666
www.trustarts.org
Date: Dec. 29, 2015, at 7:30 p.m.; Dec 30, 2015, at 2:00 p.m.
The Holidaze stage production is filled with dare-devil skills, balancing acts, acrobatics, elaborate, costumes, impressive stage scenery and the thrill of what will happen next. In addition to the dazzling performances, there is a combination of holiday songs, dance and talented artists that will make for a different look for a new holiday tradition. The stage is filled with constant action and light displays, flickering with every adept move. A blend of favorite holiday selections brings the audience into a real daze of the holiday spirit. With only two performances, it is prudent to purchase tickets for a truly unique look at the holidays.
Gerry Cernicky is a retired health and physical education teacher with 36 years of experience. He is a former teacher of the year and a sports writer for the Vandergrift News. He delivers podcasts, and maintains a website and blog. He currently resides in Pittsburgh. His work can be found at Examiner.com.
