“Five Shows to See this Holiday Season”

Christmas Spectacular
Now – Jan. 4 at Radio City Music Hall (1260 Avenue of the Americas, NYC), various times

The iconic Rockettes are the stars of the annual Christmas Spectacular show. This classic which began in 1933, is one all theater lovers should experience at some point. The performance is 90 minutes with no intermission. Audiences can expect singing, dancing and mesmerizing precision from the Rockettes’ kick line.

The Hip Hop Nutcracker
Dec. 23 at NJPAC (1 Center St, Newark), 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Dec. 29 at State Theatre New Jersey (15 Livingston Ave, New Brunswick), 8 p.m.

A twist on the classic, The Hip Hop Nutcracker is a fun blend of the original Tchaikovsky score with modern hip hop beats. The fusion includes an on-stage DJ and electric violinist. This year’s performance is extra special as hip hop celebrates its 50th anniversary. “I think our show really celebrates the roots of hip-hop culture by bringing a lot of the old-school dance styles to this stage,” said Jennifer Weber, the production’s creator, director and choreographer, in a previous interview. New Jerseyans have multiple opportunities to see the show in Newark and New Brunswick.

A Christmas Carol the Musical
Now – Dec. 30 at The Players Theatre (115 MacDougal Street, NYC), various times

This year marks the 15th anniversary production of A Christmas Carol the Musical. This 65-minute show features Charles Dickens’ classic holiday tale of Ebenezer Scrooge and his encounter with the four forewarning ghosts. “We tug at the heartstrings and tickle the funny bone – it’s a classic story told with warmth and humor,” said Brenda Bell, producing artistic director of the Literally Alive Family Theatre. “The music is a perfect mixture of beloved Christmas carols and original music played by a live percussion ensemble. We have a talented cast of 20 actors plus one dog and our Scrooge, Eric Fletcher, who has been playing the role for 13 years.” There’s a special family matinee on Sunday mornings, that includes a free workshop where audiences can meet the playwright and composer and learn more about how the production came together.

Kwanzaa Family Festival and Marketplace
Dec. 23 at NJPAC (1 Center St, Newark), 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.

For more than a decade, the Kwanzaa Family Festival and Marketplace has been a central celebration of African American culture. Activities include dance classes, crafts and storytelling. There will also be a number of live performances including by the Umoja Dance Company and Zawadi African Dance & Drum, Inc. It takes a community to put this celebration together. “We’re building a village for people of all ages to celebrate the arts, music, movement, dance and fashion,” said Eyesha Marable, assistant vice president of community engagement at NJPAC. She adds, “Kwanzaa is about sharing artistry and talents.”

‘Twas the Night Before by Cirque Du Soleil
Now – Dec. 28 at The Theater at Madison Square Garden (4 Pennsylvania Plaza, NYC), various times

Those looking for a different holiday experience outside of a traditional theater performance may enjoy ‘Twas the Night Before by Cirque du Soleil. Based on the poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas” by Clement Clarke Moore, the performance tells the story of a father-daughter duo who go on a fantastical journey. The performance includes daring acrobatics mixed with festive spirit. All ages can enjoy the tricks, spins and visual details that go into the show — including 12,000 ft. of garland and 2,000 sequins per costume.