Tag Archives: Adventure Theater

September 23, 2011 · 8:10 am

Let the Weekend Festivities Begin

Saddling up at a festival last fall

Festivals dominate this weekend round-up. They celebrate everything from books to play time to autumn to neighborhood communities to medieval times. And to fill the time between all the festival-hopping, there are theatre performances, museum events, even a parade for playgrounds. Of course, all of it is chock full of fun for the whole family. Happy Weekend!

Worldwide Day of Play – It’s playtime, big time, at The Ellipse on Saturday as Nickelodeon celebrates the largest-ever Worldwide Day of Play, its annual event to encourage kids to turn off the TV and get outside. The star-studded event will include appearances by some of the network’s biggest names – Dora the Explorer, Big TIme Rush, the Fresh Beat Band, and SpongeBob SquarePants just to name a few. Plus, more than 50 organizations have partnered with Nickelodeon to set up activities that get kids moving like batting contests and clinics with MLB and Boys & Girls Club of America, soccer drills with MLS, and tennis workshops by USTA. This all takes pace from 10am – 4pm and is free to the public.

National Book Festival – One of the biggest annual events to take place in Washington, DC, is this weekend: The 2011 National Book Festival. Organized and sponsored by the Library of Congress, the Festival regularly attracts over 100,000 visitors to the National Mall for a celebration of books and reading. More than 100 authors, poets, and illustrators from every literary genre will be presenting and doings readings and signings. And for the first time in its 11 years, the Festival will take place over two days, on Saturday from 10am – 5:30pm and Sunday from 1 – 5:30pm. The free event is open to the public. See this post for more details.

Celebrate Fall – Ring in the new season at a festival this weekend. From pumpkin patches and apple picking to corn mazes and hayrides to giant slides and jumping pillows, there are activities galore to help folks embrace the autumn spirit. This post has details on a bunch of fall festivals in the area.

Museums for Free – Yes, there are some area museums that actually do charge admission. But on Saturday, Smithsonian Magazine is hosting it’s annual Museum Day, when those that require us to open our wallets, are free. A few that will be especially appealing to kids: President Lincoln’s Cottage, the B&O Railroad Museum, the Alexandria Archaeology Museum, and the College Park Aviation Museum. For more about the program, including how to get tickets, see this post from a few days ago.

The Play’s the Thing – Two new productions are opening at local theatres this weekend — Lilly’s Plastic Purse debuts at Adventure Theatre and Alladin’s Luck will take the Imagination Stage. Catch Lilly this evening at 7pm, or Saturday and Sunday at 11am and 2pm; tickets are $17. Performances of Alladin are at 10:30am today, 1pm on Saturday, and 1pm & 4pm on Sunday; tickets range from $10-22. And for more live entertainment in the area, check out this post about shows to catch this season.

Funville – Washington Parent Magazine is hosting this parenting fair at White Flint Mall from 10am – 4pm on Saturday. Guests can enjoy live performances, hands-on activities, giveaways, contests, plus demonstrations and interactive stations focusing on education, health, the arts, parties, and more.

Barracks Row Festival – Showcasing the marine barracks and commerce on 8th Street SE in Capitol Hill, this annual festival includes fun for all ages. There will be tours of the historic barracks and Home of Commandments, live entertainment, Trapeze School aerialists on silks posing on “silks” overhead, a petting zoo, food and art vendors, and tons of fun for kids (clowns, magicians, face painting, and more). And chef from all branches of the military will be back again for a cook-off to see who will be the Top Military Chef. The day will end with the United States Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon performing their unforgettable rifle and marching routines. This will all take place from 11am – 5pm. No admission fee.

Harvest Happenings – Join the McClean Community Center on Saturday from 11am – 2pm for a fun and exciting day for the whole family. The indoor/outdoor festival will include kids’ activities, live entertainment, fun snacks, games, and more. All activities, geared toward 3-8-year-olds, are included in the $5 entrance fee (free for children 2 and under). Food concessions will also be available.

Parade for Playgrounds – On Saturday join parents, children and community members in a walk down 7th Street NW to the National Mall to advocate for a safe play space in downtown D.C. Organized by Downtown DC Kids, the group meets at 10:30am at Calvary Baptist Church (755 8th Street NW), and the parade begins at 11am, heading over to 7th Street then making its way to the Children’s Pavilion and Storytelling Stage at the National Book Festival on the Mall. They will be giving out T-shirts and asking folks to sign a petition in support of their efforts to bring a playground to downtown. Visit their website for more information about the parade and the cause.

National Geographic Little Explorers – National Geographic and Pottery Barn Kids are joining forces to bring science to little ones through the Little Explorers series. This Saturday at 10am, PB Kids stores across the country invite children ages 3 and up to learn about lions, tigers, and other big cats through hands-on activities, songs, and more. Locally, this will take place at the Tyson’s Corner store, but you can search for others hosting the event on the website. This is a free event.

Chalk4Peace Family Festival – Join the American Art Museum, the National Portrait Gallery, and your friends outside on the F Street sidewalk for a day of chalk art and interactive fun. Make your mark and take your picture with a site-specific work in chalk by artist Michael Kirby and his team from Murals of Baltimore. This free event is happening from 11:30am – 3pm on Saturday.

SW ArtsFest – From Friday through Sunday, DC’s smallest quadrant will hold its first annual SW ArtsFest. SW ArtsFest 2011 will bring together ten different organizations to present a cross-section of Southwest’s cultural community through a three-day festival with the theme “Discover Southwest.” The collaboration will include the (e)merge art fair and the Marcātus Creative Art Market, performances and children’s activities at Arena Stage at the Mead Center for American Theater, the 10th Annual DC Jazz Preservation Festival, the Human Rights Film Festival, an outdoor art studio for children, and much more.

Merriment in Maryland – Take a day trip back to medieval times at the annual Maryland Renaissance Festival. The faire runs every weekend through October 24 and offers plenty for everyone in the family to enjoy. Read more about it here.

Awesome Airmail – Airmail is turning 100, and the public is invited to celebrate at the National Postal Museum on Saturday from 11am – 3pm. Join the staff beneath a 1911 plane that carried airmail and discover its fascinating story, and enjoy hands-on activities, tours, and more.

Bramble10 – Brambleton, the planned community in Ashburn, VA, is celebrating its 10-year anniversary with a weekend of family-friendly events. On Friday evening and all day Saturday, Brambleton Town Center will be the sight of live music, kids’ entertainment, comedy performances, a petting zoo, pony rides, face painting, food vendors, balloon artists, fireworks and more. Admission is $5/person or $20/family. On Saturday a $10 entry and ride wristband is also available.

And this is always a good post to keep handy:

The Best Places in the DC Area to Enjoy a Beautiful Day Outdoors with the Kids

But according to a recent forecast, this one will likely be more useful this weekend:

Rainy Day Recreation (ie, Indoor Fun)

A Fall Full of Family Entertainment

A new season doesn’t just mean a change in weather; it also brings a whole new line-up of family entertainment. And this fall is no exception. From puppet shows and plays to opera at Nationals Park to kids rock concerts to shows about science, there is something to indulge all ages and interests. Here’s the scoop on performances coming to our local stages and, in at least one case, the ball park.

Tales of Beatrix Potter
Where: The Puppet Co. Playhouse
When: September 16 – October 9
Tickets: $10 (Get a $5 discount on tickets to shows on 9/16-18 by using the code BK2S online)
Applause Unlimited’s puppeteer/storyteller Christopher Hudert explores the fantasy world of one of Victorian England’s best-known authors and illustrators. Set in an old-fashioned nursery, this performance includes three favorite Beatrix Potter stories as seen through the eyes of a young English girl growing up at the beginning of the twentieth century. As she pursues the everyday activities of playing and learning, the tales of “Two Bad Mice”, “Jeremy Fisher”, and “Jemima Puddleduck” seem to grow from her imagination. This 45-minute show incorporates hand, rod, and shadow puppets in a style that is sure to please young and old alike.

Opera in the Outfield
Where: Nationals Park
When: September 22, 7:30pm
Tickets: FREE! Reservations are encouraged, but not required.
Join Washington National Opera for the 4th annual Opera in the Outfield, a free, live opera broadcast of Puccini’s Tosca at Nationals Park. Arrive early to the ballpark — gates open at 5:30pm — to enjoy entertainment and activities including: Performances by community youth groups including the Greenbelt S.I.T.Y. Stars double-dutch team of Greenbelt, MD, the award-winning Yorktown High School Marching Band from Arlington, VA, and the DC-based Taratibu Pan-African Step Team; a screening of the Warner Bros.cartoon “What’s Opera, Doc?,” starring Bugs Bunny and his nemesis Elmer Fudd; chances to win prizes, including a VIP suite for a Nationals Game and tickets to Kennedy Center performances.

Tiny Tots
Where: The Puppet Co.
When: Ongoing – Wednesdays, Saturdays, & Sundays at 10am
Tickets: $5
The series presents puppet shows designed for the youngest theater patrons (ages 0-4). They are shorter, the lights stay on, and the doors stay open. They have an arsenal of shows that they switch up every performance, so be sure to check the schedule to see what’s playing when you go.

Boogie Babes
Where: North Hall of Eastern Market & The Atlas
When: Thursdays & Fridays at 10:30am
Tickets: $5/child, free for siblings 6 months and under
The Boogie Babes have doubled the fun! Little ones can now boogie along with their favorite local musicians in Eastern Market’s North Hall every Thursday morning AND at The Atlas Performing Arts Center on Fridays. Go for the show, then grab lunch in the Market and stay to play, or hit one of the many eateries on the H Street Corridor. Check out the schedule to find out who’s playing when.

Tot Rock
Where: Jammin’ Java
When: Ongoing
Tickets: $5/weekdays, $10/weekends
Tot Rock is Jammin’ Java’s super-popular kids music concert series, providing wholesome family entertainment at one of the DC Metro area’s finest music clubs. Local groups perform every Monday through Friday and touring performers drop by on many weekends. Check the calendar often to see when your favorite act is performing, and for other calendar updates.

Various Performances for Children
Where: Discovery Theater
When: Ongoing
Tickets: $3 – $6
Songs and stories in English and Spanish, a puppet show about Amelia Earhart, talking drums, and kitchen science are all on the entertainment line-up at Discovery Theatre this fall. Most performances take place at the Smithsonian’s Ripley Center. See the complete schedule of shows on the theater’s website for more info and to purchase tickets online.

Big Apple Circus
Where: Dulles Town Center
When: September 22 – October 10
Tickets: $15-49
See the world’s greatest circus artists presented under an intimate big top, where no seat is more than 50 feet from the ring. Let your imagination soar and summon the most amazing acts – a juggler with a suit to fit his sweet feats of fancy handiwork; a mechanical doll who comes alive in a sinuous balancing act; spirited horses, frolicsome dogs, and a capybara and porcupine to perk up the sawdust party; audacious acrobats who astound with athletic grace; comical conjurors with magical moments of grand illusion; the aerial daring of the trapeze flyers; a singing ringmistress and the Big Apple Circus Band, creating the ringing melodies of memories to last. And Grandma, apogee of comical aspiration and mirthful joy! Your dreams will inspire a Big Apple Circus of living thrills and marvelous delight — a celebration of the imagination — an astonishing circus world of wonder.

Lilly’s Plastic Purse
Where: Adventure Theatre
When: September 23 – October 31
Tickets: $17
Lilly loves all sorts of things. She loves school, she loves dressing up, and she even grows to love her “stinky baby brother,” Julius. In fact, Lilly loves everything! At least, she loves everything most of the time. Even Lilly has some bad days, but when you have movie star sunglasses and a purple plastic purse, how bad can it be? Recommended for all ages.

Alladin’s Luck
Where: Imagination Stage
When: September 23 – October 30
Tickets: $10-22
A clever street urchin called Aladdin falls madly for the Princess Leilah when they meet by chance at the bazaar. Determined to impress the Princess, he embarks on a search for fortune and instead finds a dingy oil lamp. But this is no ordinary lamp; it houses a magical genie who helps Aladdin masquerade as a grand emir to win Leilah’s hand. Leilah, however, fell for the street urchin, not the grand emir. Frustrated that Aladdin won’t admit who he really is, Leilah gives the lamp to an unscrupulous magician and ends up his prisoner. Now Aladdin must travel across the desert to rescue Leilah by doing the thing that scares him the most…being himself. Recommended for ages 4 and up.

Yo Gabba Gabba Live!
Where: Patriot Center
When: September 30
Tickets: $25-52
Yo Gabba Gabba Live! is going on the road again! The “It’s Time To Dance!” Tour is traveling to more than 50 cities with an all-new show. See all your favorites, like DJ Lance Rock, Brobee, Foofa, Muno, Plex, and Toodee, with special guests Hip Hop Legend Biz Markie and Razzle Dazzle Superstar Leslie Hall. You won’t want to miss it!

Snow White
Where: Alden Theatre
When: October 1
Tickets: $10/McLean residents, $15/non-residents
This musical adaptation of the classic fairy tale features both live actors and wonderful puppets. Recommended for ages 4 and up.

Taste of DC Family Stage
Where: Pennsylvania Avenue NW
When: October 8-9
Tickets: FREE!
Rocknoceros, The Great Zucchini, and Hope Harris and the Cousins Jamboree will be part of the entertainment at this year’s Taste of DC, the annual festival celebrating food, wine, and culture in the city. See the schedule to find out when your favorite acts are playing during the multi-day event.

The Three Billy Goats Gruff
Where: The Puppet Co. Playhouse
When: October 13 – November 18
Tickets: $10
“The 3 Billy Goats Gruff” is a marionette romp in which three brothers get the goat af a hen-pecked troll, in their attempts to trip-trop-tromp to where the grass is greener. Performed on a unique round stage, the goats literally travel in three-dimensional space in a way that is unprecedented on the Playhouse or any other stage. Three variety numbers precede the performance, demonstrating the making of a simple hand puppet, and manipulation of rod puppets and marionettes, as an introduction to the Art of Puppetry.

The Amazing Adventures of Dr. Wonderful and Her Dog
Where: Kennedy Center
When: October 15-29
Tickets: $18
There are no puzzles in space, right? Wrong! Space is one giant puzzle waiting to be put together by physicists, astronomers, and a brainy girl who goes by the name Dr. Wonderful. Fly through the solar system with Dr. Wonderful and her amazing adventure team of Newton (the dog) and Ben (the human) in this all-new musical! Saving a super star from disappearing is no small task, especially when the star is 1.3 million times the size of Earth and 93 million miles away. But when Dr. Wonderful receives the call, her team leaps into action from their laboratory/bedroom into outer space. With a couple of butterscotch candies and a rock song from Mom in the mix, the mystery solvers are amazed by their final discovery. Girl-detective-noir meets science-geek-chic in this super cool astronomical event! Recommended for ages 6 and up.

NSO Family Concert: Peter and the Wolf Live
Where: Kennedy Center
When: October 16
Tickets: $15-18
Here’s a puzzle: which instrument sounds most like a wolf and which can play the part of a little boy? Find out when the NSO fuses a fantastic film with magical music in the fun multimedia event Peter and the Wolf Live! Audiences will be introduced to the story’s characters and the instruments that play them in Prokofiev’s beloved score. Then they will delight in hearing the work performed live while watching the action play out on the big screen in Suzie Templeton’s Oscar(r)-winning stop-motion animated film that The Times of London praises for being “beautifully made and very funny.” Recommended for ages 5 and up.

Robin Hood
Where: Artisphere’s Spectrum Theatre
When: November 4-13
Tickets: $12/adults, $10/children
Encore Stage & Studio’s fall production presents the dashing outlaw Robin Hood and his Merry Men dwelling happily in Sherwood Forest, defending the people of England from the wicked Prince John. Until one day, when Robin uncovers an evil plot — it’s up to him to save the kingdom from the devious Lady Merle and rescue the fair Maid Marian! Don’t miss this rousing tale! Recommended for ages 4 and up.

NSO Teddy Bear Concert: Tunes ‘n’ (Pig) Tales
Where: Kennedy Center
When: November 5
Tickets: $18
Music and stories go together like pieces of a puzzle – together they help create a better picture. Enjoy stories and music all about animals in this Teddy Bear Concert featuring The Three Pigs, Teddy Bear Rag, The Swan, and Baby Elephant Walk. Performed with a very unusual combination of instruments, NSO principal musicians Marissa Regni on violin and Dotian Levalier on harp join with Marissa’s father Albert Regni on four different saxophones to give each animal its own unique voice. And as a “little” surprise, along with full-sized instruments, the musicians perform on their miniature counterparts–a toy piano, a sopranino saxophone, and a tiny violin! Recommended for ages 3 to 5.

The Rough-Faced Girl
Where: Synetic Family Theatre
When: November 11 – December 28
Tickets: $12 in advance, $15 at the door
This tale, well known among the multicultural versions of the Cinderella story, skillfully invites the audience to look past the surface and into the soul. Cast aside by her family and tribe, the Rough Face Girl survives scorns and scars to follow her heart past vision and belief. Through a blend of music, dance, acrobatics, and Native American storytelling traditions, Synetic Family Theater actors help young theater goers celebrate Native American History Month and understand that beauty lies within.

Dangerous Encounters
Where: National Geographic Live
When: November 12
Tickets: $16/adults, $12/children 12 and under, $40/family 4-pack
Take a thrilling ride through the world of wildlife with Brady Barr, reptile expert and host of the National Geographic Channel series “Dangerous Encounters”. The first person to capture all 23 species of wild crocodiles, Brady has risked his life to preserve some of the world’s most amazing animals. Go behind the scenes with Brady, meet some live animals, and hear about his most exciting adventures.

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Filed under All ages, DC, Fall, Festival, Live Entertainment, Maryland, Music, Theatre

Tagged as Adventure Theater, Alden Theatre, Alladin’s Luck, and Hope Harris and the Cousins Jamboree, Big Apple Circus, Children's Theater, Dangerous Encounters, Discovery Theater, Dulles Town Center, Encore Stage & Studio, Family Activties, Imagination Stage, Jammin' Java, Kennedy Center, Lilly’s Plastic Purse, Live Entertainment, National Geographic Live!, Nationals Park, NSO Family Concert: Peter and the Wolf Live, NSO Teddy Bear Concert: Tunes 'n' (Pig) Tales, Opera in the Outfield, Patriot Center, Robin Hood, Rocknoceros, Snow White, Synetic Family Theater, Tales of Beatrix Potter, Taste of DC Family Stage, The Amazing Adventures of Dr. Wonderful and Her Dog, The Great Zucchini, The Puppet Co., The Rough-Faced Girl, The Three Billy Goats Gruff, Theatre for kids in DC, Things to do with Kids in Washington DC, Tiny Tots, Tot Rock!, Washington DC Kids Activities, Yo Gabba Gabba Live

June 3, 2011 · 6:19 am

This Weekend: Museums, a Folk Fest, and Tons of Seasonal Fun

Playing in the fountains at the U.S. Botanic Garden

As this post goes live, the forecast is calling for both sun and showers this weekend. Luckily, there are options for family fun to suit all weather possibilities — museum family days, the Washington Folk Festival, a community children’s fair, theatre performances, strawberry picking, and much more summer recreation. Here’s where it’s all happening. Happy Weekend!

Celebration of Textiles – This free, annual two-day festival at the Textile Museum offers something for everyone. Venture outside to the spectacular garden to participate in hands-on textile activities, watch live sheep being shorn (weather permitting), and learn from embroidery, weaving, and lace-making guilds of the region as they demonstrate their skills. Explore the exhibitions Green: the Color and the Cause and Second Lives: The Age-Old Art of Recycling Textiles. Also on view will be DC Public School student’s textile art projects inspired by this year’s theme of recycling and created in part of the 2011 Museum-School Partnership. The celebration will take place on Saturday from 10am – 4pm and Sunday from 1-5pm. All ages are welcome.

Washington Folk Festival – Get folksy at Glen Echo Park this weekend. In its 31st year, the Washington Folk Festival will showcase the diversity of traditional music in Washington. All of the artists hail from the DC area, but cultures from around the nation, as well as the world, will be represented through music, dance, crafts, and stories. The public is invited to enjoy the festival that is renown in the folk community Saturday and Sunday from 12-7pm both days. Admission is free.

Imagination Bethesda – On Saturday from 11am – 4pm, join the Bethesda Urban Partnership to celebrate children, art, and all things fun at the 17th annual Imagination Bethesda. Where Woodmont Avenue meets Elm Street, activity tents will line the streets, face painters will bring butterflies and pirates to life, and a stage of live entertainment will have the whole street dancing. Activity details and the entertainment line-up are available on the Imagination Bethesda website.

Summer in the City – Outdoor concerts, a children’s garden and more ongoing seasonal fun has begun in DC. From Jazz in the Garden on Friday evenings to open swim at local pools to play time at the Botanic Garden, this post has the scoop on where and when you can experience the joys of summer.

Bear Awareness Days – The National Zoo is hosting two days of fun, family programming all about bears. Enjoy special keeper talks and animal demos, learn about the bears of the world, and find out how to stay safe around local bears. Kids of all ages can help bear-proof a campsite, share what they love about bears, sneak a peek at our bamboo shed, and even bring their own teddy bear for a check-up. This free program will take place on Saturday and Sunday from 10am – 2pm. View a schedule of activities on the National Zoo website.

The Time is Still Ripe – Strawberry fields may not be forever on DC area farms, but they’re still yielding fruit for now. This may be the last weekend to harvest your own — if you plan to go, this list includes farms offering pick-your-own opportunities.

Family Night Out at the Theatre – 1^st Stage Theatre at Tysons Corner presents a special family performance of “Jack and the Bean-Stalk” on Saturday at 6pm. The brand new adaptation of the classic fairytale just opened last weekend and will run through June 19. Tickets are $15 and available for purchase online.

National Trails Day – The first Saturday of every June is National Trails Day. Celebrate it this weekend by taking a family hike. For some ideas on where to go, see this post about good walks in the woods with the kids.

History in the Making Family Day – The Smithsonian American Art Museum is celebrating History in the Making: The Renwick Craft Invitational 2011 with a day of activities for the family. Guests are invited to take a family-oriented tour of the exhibition galleries, then make arts and crafts inspired by the work of the four artists on view. There will also be live music and a scavenger hunt. The free event runs from 11am – 2pm on Saturday.

Click, Clack, Moo – On Sunday at 3pm, the Alden Theatre in McLean presents a new musical based on the Caldecott Award-winning book by Doreen Cronin and Betsy Lewin. All day long Farmer Brown hears “click clack moo, clickety clackety moo…” The cows are typing and protesting their working conditions! When his granddaughter Jenny comes to visit, Farmer Brown declares the farm a “tech-free zone.” The hilarious musical is all about negotiation and compromise. Recommended for ages 4 and up. Tickets are $12, $8/McLean residents.

Best in Shows – Along with the above-mentioned plays, there are several more performances to see around the area, including A Year with Frog and Toad, which is in its final weekend at Adventure Theatre. Find out what else is on stages this weekend — see this post for live entertainment options for the family.

Sunny Days – The weather forecast is looking good for at least part of the weekend. Bask in the sunshine and have a good time with help of this list of great places to enjoy a beautiful day outdoors with the kids.

Rainy Days – Let’s hope you won’t have to use this, but if the skies should open up this weekend, these ideas for rainy day recreation will come in handy.

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Filed under All ages, Annual, Art, DC, Educational, Farm, Festival, Free, Live Entertainment, Maryland, Museums, Music, Outdoor, Seasonal, Summer, Theatre, Virginia, Weekend

Tagged as A Year with Frog and Toad, Adventure Theater, Alden Theatre, American A, Celebration of Textiles, Click Clack Moo, Glen Echo Park, Green: the Color and the Caus, History in the Making Family Day, History in the Making: The Renwick Craft Invitational 2011, Imagination Bethesda, National Trails Day, Second Lives: The Age-Old Art of Recycling Textile, Textile Museum, Washington DC Family Activities, Washington DC Kids Activities, Washington DC Strawberry picking, Washington Folk Festival, Weekend June 4-5

November 19, 2010 · 9:59 am

‘Tis the Weekend

The holiday season is upon us. This is evident by the holiday-themed events that have begun popping up around town. Of course, if you’re not quite ready to embrace the spirit, there are plenty of other things to do, such as Family Days at the museums and the Gustafer Yellowgold show at the Alden Theater. For more ideas for family fun this weekend, both with and without the turkeys and tinsel in mind, hear are some recommendations.

Montgomery County Thanksgiving Parade
Get into the Turkey Day spirit a little early. On Saturday, November 20, the 13th Annual Montgomery County Thanksgiving Parade will bring a procession of holiday fun to the streets of Downtown Silver Spring. Marching bands, floats, giant balloons, trained dogs, antique cars, and holiday displays will be part of the procession. The pageantry begins at 9:30am at Georgia and Ellsworth Avenues.

ICE!
The National Harbor’s signature holiday attraction sounds pretty cool, both literally and figuratively. I have yet to experience it myself, so here’s the description from the website:

“Bringing to life the 1957 Dr. Seuss holiday classic tale, ICE! features 10 colorful scenes straight out of the pages of the original storybook. Sculpted from TWO-MILLION pounds of ice, the indoor walk-through attraction brilliantly showcases how the “Whoville-hating” Grinch learns the true meaning of Christmas. Visitors will take an adventure through the Grinch’s frozen world, see jaw-dropping ice sculptures and walk through larger-than-life scenes that re-create the original storyline. Little kids and big kids alike can even zip down two-story-tall slides made completely of ice!”

ICE! will be open through January 9. Tickets are $29/ages 13+, $18/kids 4-12 and can be purchased online for various times.

The Singing Lizard — for Free!
As part of their ARTdays at CHAW series, the Capitol Hill Arts Workshop presents a free concert for families. The Singing Lizard’s live shows are fast-paced, fun, and full of exciting songs that both kids and adults enjoy. The concert is from 10:00 -11:00 a.m. in CHAW’s Black Box Theater.

Grand Canyon Adventure
Just because the Natural History Museum isn’t hosting a Family Day this weekend, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit. Besides the incredible exhibits that get kids of all ages ogling – dinos, mammals, insects, butterflies – the IMAX theater has some compelling movies, including the recently opened Grand Cayon Adventure: River at Risk 3D. The film about a whitewater ride with inspirational message about water conservation is a more than worth every cent of the $9 tickets.

Jewish Folk Arts Festival
The Jewish Folk Arts Festival is a celebration of the talent and diversity of Jewish performing and visual arts in the Greater Washington DC/Baltimore region. The richness of values, culture, and heritage is passed from generation to generation through singers, writers, dancers, visual artists, storytellers and craftspeople. All performers and workshop presenters donate their time to the festival. In its final few days, the festival is being held at the JCC of Greater Washington located at 6125 Montrose Road in Rockville. Hours are 12pm – 6pm. Ticket prices vary by day and age; visit the website for specifics.

Holiday Shows
“Rudolph the Rednose Reindeer” opens at Adventure Theater today, November 19, and “A Christmas Carol” opens at Ford’s Theater tomorrow, November 20. See this post about holiday shows for complete details on both.

Ice Skate Amid the Sculptures
The National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden Ice Rink opened for the season last weekend, and mild temps over the next few days will make it a great time to get gliding. Afterward, treat yourself and the kids to hot chocolate and other goodies at the Pavilon Café. The rink is located on the National Mall at 7th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. Open Saturday 10am – 11pm and Sunday 11am – 9pm. Admission is $7/adults, $6/children 12 and under.

Geckos and Wild Music at the Nat Geo
There’s a reason why I keep recommending Geckos: Tales to Toepads and Wild Music: Sounds & Songs of Life at the National Geographic Museum: Both exhibits are awesome. For more details, photos, and a lengthier review, check out this post from a few weeks ago.

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Filed under All ages, Annual, Art, Christmas, DC, Educational, Festival, Free, Holidays, Live Entertainment, Movies, Museums, Music, Outdoor, Seasonal, Weekend

Tagged as 13th Annual Montgomery County Thanksgiving Day Parade, A Christmas Carol Ford's Theatre, Adventure Theater, ARTdays at CHAW, Geckos: Tails to Toepads, Grand Canyon Adventure: River at Risk 3D, Gustafer Yellowgold, ICE!, JCC of Greater Washington, Jewish Folk Arts Festival, National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden Ice Rink, National Geographic Museum, National Museum of Natural History, Pavilion Cafe, Rudolph the Rednose Reindeer, The Singing Lizard, Wild Music: Sounds & Songs of Life

November 9, 2010 · 11:10 am

Holidays on the Stage

Tis’ the season for some wonderful productions at many of our local theatres. From several versions of The Nutcracker ballet (including some on strings) to Ebenezer Scrooge at Ford’s Theatre to seasonal favorites scaled down for little ones, there’s something on the stage for everyone. And not only do these productions enhance the holiday spirit; they’re entertaining indoors activities on nippy autumn and winter days.

Here’s a rundown of holiday shows (ordered by opening date, with most descriptions pulled straight from the websites) coming to theatres as early as this weekend. All tickets are on sale now.

The Happy Elf
Montgomery College, in collaboration with Adventure Theater
Dates: 11/12 – 11/19
Tickets: $20, $15/Seniors & Students
Based on the song of the same name by Harry Connick, Jr. and book by Lauren Gunderson and Andrew Fishman, with music and lyrics by Harry Connick, Jr. and directed by Tony Award-winner John Rando, The Happy Elf is an exciting new addition to both the College Performing Arts Series and Adventure Theatre’s 59th seasons. This new musical follows Eubie, a North Pole elf who always wears a smile, when he decides to bring Christmas joy to the sad town of Bluesville, which has fallen into a state of permanent blues. A coveted spot on Santa’s sleigh team awaits Eubie if he can fix Bluesville. Don’t miss this heart-warming new holiday musical that captures the joy of the season.

Rudolph the Rednose Reindeer
Adventure Theater
Dates: 11/19 – 1/2
Tickets: $15
Experience the timeless tale of Rudolph and friends in a whole new way – LIVE! The beloved stop-motion classic soars from the TV screen to the stage in this live-action world premiere. Featuring everyone’s favorite characters: Hermey the Elf, Sam the Snowman, the Misfit Toys, the Abominable Snow Monster, Yukon Cornelius, Santa, and (of course) Rudolph! You won’t want to miss this wonderful holiday tradition that speaks to the misfit in all of us. All ages.

A Christmas Carol
Ford’s Theatre
Dates: 11/20 – 1/2
Tickets: $30 – $60
Join the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future as they lead the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of transformation and redemption. Michael Baron returns to direct his original staging that captures the magic and joy of Dickens’s classic. Acclaimed Washington stage actor Edward Gero returns to play Scrooge in the production The Washington Post hailed as “musically high-spirited” and “infectiously jolly.” Recommended for ages 5 and up.

The Little Red Gingerbread Man
Discovery Theater
Dates: 11/23-24 -10:15am & 11am, 11/26 – 11am.
Tickets: 11/23-24 $3 – $6, 11/26 $9/children, $10/adults
In this best of all fairy-tale worlds, the Barefoot Puppets tell the rollicking story of what happens when two great classics get mixed with a twist. You’ll never guess what happens when an inquisitive redhead goes in search of a runaway cookie. Chase scenes! Hilarity! The Big Bad Wolf! It’s a perfect pre-Thanksgiving family activity. Friday is a special family performance — each child will receive a gingerbread cookie to decorate and take home. Recommended for ages 2-8.

The Joffrey Ballet – The Nutcracker
The Kennedy Center
Dates: 11/24-28
Tickets: $45 – $150
The Joffrey Ballet dancers perform Robert Joffrey’s “dazzling” (The Chicago Sun-Times) version of Tchaikovsky’s family classic, featuring charming Victorian scenery and costumes.

Junie B. in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells!
Imagination Stage
Dates: 11/24 – 1/11
Tickets: $10 – $22
It’s holiday time in Room One and that means drama! Tattletale May keeps picking on Junie B., and things get even worse when Junie B. draws May’s name for Secret Santa. She hatches a plan to give May a lump of coal, while getting an awesome Squeeze-A-Burp for herself. Will Junie B. have a last-minute change of heart and show her true holiday spirit? Just like its heroine, the show has laughs, verve and energy to spare! Recommended for ages 4 and up.

The Nutcracker
The Puppet Co. Main Stage
Dates: 11/26 – 12/31
Tchaikovsky’s musical adaptation of the E. T. A.Hoffman story is brought to life by the magic of The Puppet Co. “The Nutcracker” is the festive story of Clara-Marie’s adventures with her favorite toy. The larger-than-life-size costume characters and marionettes delight Clara-Marie, and the audience, on her magical journey through the “Land of the Sugar Plum Fairy.” Originally performed live with the Arlington Symphony, this production is full of, as the Washington Post put it “clever costuming and delightful surprises.”

The Nutcracker
THEARC
Dates: 11/27-28
Tickets: $29
Septime Webre’s “The Nutcracker” will delight audiences at THEARC on November 27 & 28. Word has it that these Washington Ballet productions at the Anacostia theatre are intended to be kid-friendly for antsy theatre-goers, with a scaled-down set and shorter performances. Four show times are available.

Nutcracker Fantasy
The Puppet Co. Tiny Tots
Dates: 11/27 – 12/29
Tickets: $5
This marionette version of the holiday classic is geared toward the smallest of audience members. Tiny Tots shows are designed for theater patrons ages 0-4. They are shorter, the lights stay on, the doors stay open, and the show is set up on the floor.

Seasons of Light
Discovery Theater
Dates: Mon thru Fri 11/30 – 12/22
Tickets: $3 – $6
This seasonal favorite calls in the warmth of many holidays filled with light in our fun-filled interactive celebration. Explore the history and customs of Devali, Ramadan, Sankta Lucia, Chanukah, Kwanzaa, Las Posadas, Christmas, and a First Nations tradition of the Winter Solstice. This show sells out fast — book your tickets early! Recommended for ages 4-12.

Septime Weber’s The Nutcracker – Presented by The Washington Ballet
Warner Theatre
Dates: 12/2-26
Tickets: $43.20 – $106
The grand, full-scale version of Septime Webre’s production, performed by the Washington Ballet. Tickets range from $43.20 – $106.

A Christmas Carol (Saturday Morning at National)
National Theatre
Date: 12/4
Tickets: FREE
An interactive adventure presents Charles Dickens’ ever-green holiday tale of Tiny Tim Crachit and the hard-hearted Ebenezer Scrooge. The old miser’s redemption from ill-humor and grumpy greed is brought vividly to life by the delightfully charming, entrancing and whimsical story-teller, Chris Davis. Show times are 9:30am and 11am. Tickets are free and distributed a half hour prior to performances on a first-come, first-served basis. Every person must be standing in line to receive a ticket.

Christmas Dreams from The Nutcracker
National Theatre
Date: 12/11
Tickets: FREE
Snowflakes and Sugar Plum Sweets are in the air as the Virgina Ballet Company and School present selections from their magical, glittering Nutcracker. Familiar music, lively dances, lovely costumes and charming characters from Tchaikovsky’s classic confection bring us elegant and amusing holiday cheer. Show times are 9:30am and 11am. Tickets are free and distributed a half hour prior to performances on a first-come, first-served basis. Every person must be standing in line to receive a ticket.