Give the gift of experience this holiday season and create memories at these local family theater opportunities.
‘Seussical‘
NextStop Theatre, Herndon
Fridays through Sundays Dec. 4-20, times vary
Starring a youth cast of local third through 11th graders and three members of NextStop’s professional company, this musical extravaganza combines classic Dr. Seuss characters with a hilarious plot. Favorite characters include Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat, Gertrude McFuzz, lazy Mayzie and Jojo, a little boy with a big imagination. The colorful characters transport the audience on an imaginative journey from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus to the invisible world of the Whos. With its message about the importance of friendship, loyalty and family, “Seussical” is the perfect show for the holiday season.
Wolf Trap Holiday Sing-A-Long
Filene Center, Vienna
Saturday, Dec. 5, 4 p.m.
This annual Northern Virginia event should be on everyone’s bucket list. The musical performance includes a performance by the United States Marine Band and sing along to holiday songs with local choir and vocal groups. Admission is free, but plan to arrive early. Be sure to bring a bell for the “Jing-A-Long” during the singing of Jingle Bells and a candle for the traditional candlelight procession during the last verse of “Silent Night.” U.S. Marines will also be on hand collecting new, unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots.
‘Bah, Humbug!‘
Lakeside Theatre at Northern Virginia Community College, Woodbridge
Dec. 11-19, times vary
This musical retelling of the classic holiday story will warm the hearts of audience members of all ages. Join Scrooge, the Christmas ghosts, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim and more as the true meaning of charity and the Christmas spirit unfold. Don’t delay buying tickets. Assigned seating will be based on the order of purchase.
Rainbow Rock: Rockin’ in a Rainbow Wonderland
Jammin’ Java, Vienna
Dec. 12, 10:30 a.m.
Ring in the season with some rockin’ original tunes as well as classic holiday songs performed by the colorful, interactive Rainbow Rock band. Kids will love dancing and shaking along with maracas, tambourines and, of course, jingle bells. The Alexandria-based Rainbow Rock Band was recently selected as a winner of a Parents’ Choice Fun Stuff Award.
‘A Christmas Carol‘
The Alden, McLean
Dec. 12, 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.
This adaptation of the timeless holiday tale is geared towards children and families. According to the McLean Community Center website, it has “all the joy sentiment and meaning are here, without being too scary for young audience.” Plus, the story is told with a jolly musical score and spectacular scenery. Recommended for children ages 5 and older.
Micaela Williamson is a coauthor of local travel guide “Kid Trips Northern Virginia,” an extraordinary resource that provides descriptions, useful information and insider tips for hundreds of local destinations. Micaela is also an award-winning blogger who enjoys supporting area businesses and scouting out family-friendly venues with her two young sons.
