December Staff Picks
Deck the (Concert) Halls…
It’s the last month of the decade! How will you be celebrating?
What We’re Recommending:
A Charlie Brown Christmas Live On Stage | Presented by Spectacle Management
December 7
“A couple of years ago I saw A Charlie Brown Christmas live on stage. I went with no expectations. Ironically, I found myself completely moved. There I was, surrounded by families and children, crying ̶ yes, crying. Full disclosure: I cried five times. I don’t know if it was the nostalgia, the cartoon-like set, the fact that it snowed on stage, or the carol sing-a-long at the finale, but I left feeling the holiday spirit. A Charlie Brown Christmas has been airing on TV since 1965 for generations, so it truly is a live holiday event that the whole family can enjoy.”
Navidad Latina | Presented by Unitas Ensemble
December 14
“Unitas Ensemble, known for producing amazing classical music by Latinx composers is throwing their 3rd annual holiday concert this month. This performance is free for all, so there’s really no reason not to go. The 23-piece chamber orchestra will be performing favorite holiday tunes in both English and Spanish, so reserve your tickets now for a fun evening for the whole family!”
SEE | BE SEEN | Presented by Boston Center for the Arts
December 20 – 21
“In the dance world, December means Nutcracker season and other shows like What The Dickens and Black Nativity. While I love these, this month I’m especially excited for See | Be Seen by choreographer Emily Beattie. This performance will feature three dancers and a crystalline, globe-like structure that the audience is invited to move around. I’m excited to mix up the yuletide season with this experiential show!”
The Christmas Revels: An American Celebration of the Winter Solstice | Presented by Revels
December 13 – 29
“I so delight in seeing the Christmas Revels each winter, and am particularly excited to see the Americana take on the musical festivities this year. Take a trip back in time to 1930’s USA, the dustbowl decade, for a mix of song, dance, and story sure to entertain as Revels celebrates the winter solstice. I’m particularly interested to hear the Appalachian folk music and the Second Line brass pieces – it sounds like there’s something for everyone!”
Secrets & Illusions | Presented by Eclipse Production Studios
December 27 – 29
“Looking to attend a performance that stands out from traditional holiday fare? Illusionist Ivan Amodei provides a powerful and thought-provoking night of entertainment that spans far beyond the typical structures of magic. This inspiring, unique, and innovative show will be a great fit for anyone looking to shake up their holiday plans!”
Old Town Trolley’s Holiday Lights & Sights Tour | Presented by Old Town Trolley
December 1 – 30
“My December staff pick is Old Town Trolley’s Holiday Lights & Sights Tour. Boston during the holidays is beyond beautiful, and truly is what gets me through the cold of December. Old Town Trolley, for the first year ever, is offering a tour that is dedicated to looking at the beautiful lights, Christmas trees, and holiday displays all around the city. In my mind, it’s the best way to take in the beauty of the season!”
Stitch by Stitch: Activist Quilts from the Social Justice Sewing Academy | Presented by Fuller Craft Museum
Now – January 19
“The art of quilting is often overlooked, but not by the current exhibition visiting the Fuller Craft Museum in Brockton. The Social Justice Sewing Academy (SJSA) is in Antioch, California was founded in 2017, but has already had its work showcased across the country. Used as an educational tool for children, the SJSA’s piece promote creative expression and dialogue about social justice. Go check it out, and learn something new this holiday season!”
Check out all these picks and more on the ArtsBoston Calendar.
What arts or cultural event are you most excited for this month? Let us know on Twitter by tweeting us, @artsboston!
Want weekly recommendations on what to see and do in Boston?
Pictured above: The cast of A Charlie Brown Christmas Live performs on their national tour.