As the saying goes, “The show must go on!” And now that the holiday season is upon us, local theaters and performing arts centers are finding a way to bring holiday cheer and performances to you. Whether you want to sing along to your favorite carols or catch a classic Christmas play, here are 16 in-person and virtual performances to attend this holiday.
A Riverside Family Christmas
Nov. 25-Dec. 27
Bring the family to Riverside Center for a wholesome performance. Enjoy a fun show full of music, dance and holiday stories as your family experiences the values messages and good will of the season. Dinner service will not be available for these performances. // Riverside Center for the Performing Arts: 95 Riverside Parkway, Fredericksburg; $55-$60
The Little Theatre of Alexandria’s “A Christmas Carol”
Dec. 4-19
While you have probably seen dozens of A Christmas Carol adaptations, The Little Theatre of Alexandria’s definitely won’t be one to miss. Join the usual characters of Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchit and Tiny Tim and some real ghosts that will turn the classic upside down. // The Little Theatre of Alexandria: 600 Wolfe St., Alexandria; $20
A Chanticleer Christmas
Dec. 5, 8 p.m.
The a cappella group Chanticleer is making its way back to NoVA, but this time it’s virtual. The Grammy winning group will combine 12 voices, running from soprano to bass, for a special rendition of American hymns, carols from around the world and Gospel melodies. // $15-$45
Darlene Love “Love for the Holidays”
Dec. 5, 8 p.m.
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Darlene Love is bringing you a powerhouse performance for the holidays. The Grammy and Oscar winner is continuing her special Christmas show and bringing the festive cheer right to your home. A portion of your ticket supports the Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts. // $35
It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play
Dec. 5 & 6, times vary
The Fauquier Community Theatre is taking on the beloved classic It’s a Wonderful Life. Through a virtual performance, over 35 actors will bring the story of George Bailey to life with costumes, sound effects and music. // $10-$20
Wolf Trap Holiday Sing-along from home
Dec. 5 & 19
The annual Wolf Trap Holiday Sing-along is still a go. This year’s virtual performance will feature “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band and more than 500 local singers performing traditional carols to sing along at home. Each night will show a different virtual performance. // free
Up on the Rooftop, Click, Click, BANG Murder Mystery
Dec. 5 & 6, 12 & 13, 19, 6:30 p.m.
Skip the traditional plays and shows and make plans to attend StageCoach Theatre’s holiday murder mystery. Join Detective S. Claus as you try to find out who killed Frosty the Snowman. Guests will also be served a three-course dinner. // Oatlands Historic House & Gardens: 20850 Oatlands Plantation Lane, Leesburg; $60
Reston Town Center Holiday Performances
Dec. 5-20, noon-4 p.m.
Make a special trip to the Promenade at Reston Town Center for a cheerful holiday performance. Every weekend local performers and groups will be singing your favorite songs and carols to get you in the holiday spirit. // Reston Town Center Promenade: between Market Street and Democracy Drive, Reston; free
Gary Hoey “Ho Ho Hoey’s Rockin’ Holiday Tour
Dec. 10, 7:30 p.m.
Get in the holiday spirit with Gary Hoey. The rock guitarist will be spreading holiday cheer by playing classics, like “Santa Claus is Coming To Town,” “Jingle Bells” and “Frosty The Snowman” on the guitar. // The Birchmere: 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria; $35
Reva and Sid Dewberry Family School of Music Holiday Concert
Dec. 12, 8 p.m.
Enjoy a night of holiday tunes with the Dewberry School of Music. Get cozy on the couch as you listen to new and classic holiday music from amazing student artists. Registration is not required to watch. // free
A Christmas Story
Dec. 12 & 13, 19 & 20, 21-23, times vary
Don’t shoot your eye out at this classic adaptation. Join Ralphie and his family as they let you in on their crazy Christmas, full of BB guns, triple dog dares and the infamous leg lamp. // StageCoach Theatre: 20937 Ashburn Road, Suites 115 and 120, Ashburn; $25
Virtual J: Songs of Light – A Musical Hanukkah Celebration
Dec. 13, 4-5:30 p.m.
Ring in Hanukkah with the Pozez JCC with a musical celebration. Join instructor James Sokol to celebrate the festival of lights with a variety of Broadway, pop and opera songs that explore light. // free
At home with Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy: A Celtic Family Christmas
Dec. 13, 7 p.m.
Welcome Natalie MacMaster, Donnell Leahy and their family into your homes for A Celtic Family Christmas. This virtual performance will combine music and dance with stories about the family’s Christmas traditions, farming and parenting. // $15-$45
A Very MAYSA Christmas
Dec. 19, 7:30 p.m.
Maysa is coming back to The Birchmere for a special Christmas performance. The Baltimore singer is sure to bring a soulful touch to your favorite carols at this festive performance. // The Birchmere: 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria; $69.50
Manassas Ballet Theatre: The Nutcracker
Dec. 24, 7:30 p.m.
Continue your tradition of seeing The Nutcracker during the holiday season, but this time enjoy it from the comfort of your home. The Manassas Ballet Theatre is back for their annual show with a pre-recorded performance, which can be viewed on Christmas Eve. // $25
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