A Christmas Carol,” South Coast Repertory, through Dec. 26
Hal Landon Jr. returns for his 31st snow-capped season after nearly 1,000 performances as Ebenezer Scrooge, along with the Cratchet family, a bevy of street urchins and a trilogy of spooks in this Charles Dickens classic. Adapted by Jerry Patch and directed by John-David Keller, South Coast Repertory’s nearly perfect production features elegant sets, stitch-perfect costumes and spotless acting by Landon and his adroit supporting cast, including eight blooming child actors from South Coast Repertory’s Theatre Conservatory program.
“The Nutcracker,” Barclay Theatre, Dec. 11 to 24
Why not spend a few holiday moments with the Sugar Plum Fairy and journey to a magical place as the Festival Ballet Theatre returns with “The Nutcracker” after three record-setting years at Irvine’s Barclay Theatre. Featuring guest artists from the American Ballet Theatre, along with the troop’s talented young dancers from throughout Southern California, this family-friendly production is enjoyable and affordable.
“Sister’s Christmas Catechism,” Laguna Playhouse, Nov. 29, Dec. 6, 13
An odd-ball holiday show that will keep audiences laughing as they watch sister solve a mystery that has been puzzling historians throughout the ages: What ever happened to the Magi’s gold? It’s “CSI: Bethlehem” as you help solve the mystery through a forensic examination of the nativity scene and other “crime” scenes.
“Peter Pan,” Orange County Performing Arts Center, through Jan. 2
Direct from its U.S. premiere in San Francisco, “Peter Pan” is a spectacular new stage production of J.M. Barrie’s classic story performed in a state of the art, 1,350-seat pavilion. Featuring 22 actors, amazing puppets, magical music, and dazzling flying sequences surrounded by 360-degree breathtaking video, “Peter Pan” has been a hit since it launched in London in 2009.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Honda Center, Wednesday
A holiday concert featuring a commingling of hard rock, symphonic metal, opera, classical influences, an amazingly talented band and singers and a live light show and pyrotechnic performance unrivaled anywhere makes Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s holiday show my personal favorite. Founded 15 years ago by former arena rocker, writer, and producer Paul O’Neill, the group has sold more than 7 million copies of its first four rock operas. On the road, the group has become one of the world’s top touring acts, with a $20 million production that has played to more than 5 million fans in 80 cities. The group is lead by Al Pitrelli, a Berklee School of Music graduate who went on to play with Alice Cooper, Asia, and everyone’s favorite, Megadeth. Loud, visual, multicolored, flame en-shrouded and exploding with creativity, this is a truly unique and breath-taking holiday production.
“Andy Williams Christmas Show,” Orange County Performing Arts Center, Dec. 16 to 18
Still thrilling audiences more than 40 years after his debut, Andy Williams’ interpretation of “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” highlights the Pacific Symphony’s Pops Christmas special, which also features other hits including “Moon River,” “Music to Watch Girls By” and “Days of Wine and Roses.” A true Christmas crooner celebration.
“Messiah,” Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, Dec. 12
Led by conductor John Alexander, the Pacific Symphony performs George Frideric Handel’s timeless masterpiece featuring some of the most magnificent music ever created. Messiah crosses the musical gamut from pain to joy to renewal and features the electrifying and beloved “Hallelujah” chorus.
“Radio City Christmas Spectacular,” Honda Center, Dec. 6, 7
In 2008, the “Radio City Christmas Spectacular” arena tour debuted to rave reviews with the launch of the biggest production in the show’s 76-year-history. Children beam as Santa takes the audience on a sleigh ride to the North Pole, while parents gaze in a trance-like awe at the precision dance of the Radio City Rockettes.
—Robert Palmer is a lawyer with Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP in Irvine and an arts buff.
