10 Must-see shows for the holidays

last updated 12/01/2021
10 Must-see shows for the holidays

Shows for little kids, big kids, and shows for the entire family! This season's holiday theater schedule includes something for everyone-starting this weekend!

10 Must-see shows for the holidays

A Christmas Story: The Musical - now through Dec 30

For the whole family: A Christmas Story: The Musical is the hilarious account of Ralphie’s desperate quest to ensure that this most perfect of gifts ends up under his tree this Christmas.  Catch this show at La Comedia Dinner Theatre in Springboro through December 30.

Who’s Holiday! - Dec 2-19

NOT for the whole family! Called a “raunchy riff on Dr. Seuss,” Who’s Holiday! is a wildly funny and heartfelt adult-only comedy about grown-up Cindy Lou Who, as she recalls that Christmas Eve when she first met the Grinch and the twisted turn of events her life has since taken. Presented by The Human Race Theatre Co at The Loft theatre in downtown Dayton.

A Charlie Brown Christmas - Dec 2-5

For the whole family: A Charlie Brown Christmas - This 40-minute production has become a family tradition and a perfect introduction for young children to LIVE theatre. This show at Sinclair in downtown Dayton usually sells out, so book early.

The Hip Hop Nutcracker - Dec 3

For the whole family: Looking for something less traditional?  The Hip Hop Nutcracker is a contemporary dance spectacle set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless music.  Presented at the Victoria Theatre, this show is a unique and joyful holiday mash-up for the whole family.

Jingle Bells, Batman Smells - Dec 3-19

For the kids: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells at Town Hall Theatre in Centerville is a festive holiday sing-along your kids will love.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra - Dec 4

For the whole family: Live at The Nutter Center, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra's rock opera is a must-see holiday favorite - playing two spectacular shows on Saturday, December 4th.

Season's Greetings - Dec 9-19

For the whole family: SEASON’S GREETINGS at the PNC Arts Annex is a unique holiday experience showcasing two extraordinary voices with local ties as they offer up some of the season’s classics in a fun and casual way. Songs featured include a swingin’ “I’ll Be Home For Christmas,” a funky “Jingle Bells,” and a soulful “O’ Holy Night.” You also won’t want to miss out on the traditional sing-a-long to close out the evening!

Christmas with the Celts - Dec 11

For the whole family: Their PBS special aired on 222 PBS channels across the United States, Canada, and on the BBC in Ireland. Now, Christmas with the Celts brings this holiday favorite to the Clark State Performing Arts Center in Springfield, live on stage!

The Nutcracker - Dec 10-19

For the whole family: Join little Clara as she drifts into restless slumber amidst tiny tin soldiers and menacing rodents, floats dreamily among the snowflakes, and is escorted to the Land of Sweets, where she meets the sparkling Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier.  Dayton's biggest and best holiday performance arts tradition - do not miss Dayton Ballet’s The Nutcracker at the Schuster.

Cirque Dreams Holidaze - Dec 20-26

For the whole family: This annual tradition wraps a whimsical, Broadway-style musical infused with contemporary circus artistry into the ultimate holiday gift for the entire family! Cirque Dreams Holidaze will light up the historic Victoria Theatre stage in downtown Dayton right before Christmas.

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