Tag Archives: Publick Playhouse

January 14, 2014 · 9:52 am

It’s Showtime all Winter Long

See "Aquarium" at Imagination Stage through January 26 or at the Atlas from January 28 - February 2

See “Aquarium” at Imagination Stage through Jan 26 or at the Atlas from Jan 28 – Feb 2

Get out of the cold and into the theatre, concert hall, or arena — our local live entertainment venues are presenting a dynamic lineup of shows all winter long! Here’s where you can see them, listed in order of opening date. And if you know of a great production that you don’t see here, feel free to mention it in the comments.

The Little Mermaid, Jr.
Where: Thomas Jefferson Community Theater
When: Through January 19
Tickets: $12/adult, $10/child
Encore Stage and Studio’s newest “theatre by kids for kids” splashes into the classic story of Ariel, the mermaid princess, who wishes to live in the world above rather than the ocean floor. To explore life on land, Ariel disobeys her father, King Triton, and makes a deal with the evil sea witch Ursula. Ransoming her singing voice, she must convince Prince Eric that she is indeed the girl who rescued him or risk losing her voice forever. Recommended for ages 4 and up.

Aquarium
Where: Imagination Stage
When: Through January 26
Tickets: $10-12
The Bethesda theater has brought back its popular production for its youngest patrons. With gentle music, beautiful puppets, and props, friends Jack and Calypso lead children and caregivers to a magical, interactive world where giant jellyfish fly through the air, sheep graze in the grass, and lemons become the sun in a “let’s pretend” sky. Appropriate for children ages 1-5.

Grey Seal Puppets on Parade
Where: Publick Playhouse
When: January 16
Tickets: $4
Enjoy this hilarious parade of adorable puppets featuring Mr. Crabcake and Humpty Dumpty as host Stubbs McGee brings you laughs and limericks. Recommended for grades pre-K-2. Publick Playhouse is located at 5445 Landover Road in Cheverly, Md.

Tales of Beatrix Potter
Where: The Puppet Co.
When: January 17 – February 9
Admission: $10
Applause Unlimited of Richmond, VA is back at the Playhouse, and presenting three of Potter’s favorites, “Two Bad Mice,” “Jemima Puddle-Duck,” and “Jeremy Fisher,” Christopher Hudert tells the stories, which come to life through the everyday activities of a young girl as she dreams and plays alone in her room. Recommended for PreK – Grade 4.

Tiny Tots
Where: The Puppet Co.
When: Most 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 check the schedule to see what’s playing when you plan to go.

Miss Nelson is Missing
Where: Adventure Theatre
When: January 17 – March 9
Tickets: $19 (look for a discount on the opening night show here)
Miss Nelson’s class is the worst! Spitballs flying and paper airplanes sailing across the room send the gentle, long-suffering teacher over the edge. Surprise…Miss Nelson turns up missing, only to be replaced by Viola Swamp, a petrifying substitute teacher. Will the students of Room 207 ever get Miss Nelson back? Recommended for ages 5 and up.

Mouse in the House
Where: Theatre on the Run
When: January 18
Tickets: (look for a discount here)
Adapted from the book The Mouse of Amherst by Elizabeth Spires, this dance performance tells the story of an unlikely friendship between a lively mouse and reclusive 19th-century poet Emily Dickinson, with video backdrop animation by Bryan Leister. The mouse’s life changes forever when a gust of wind blows one of Emily’s poems her way. Moved by Emily’s evocative words that capture her own feelings, the mouse becomes determined to be a poet herself. Young audience members learn that everyone can write about their feelings and that even a common mouse is capable of creating beautiful poetry.

NSO Ensemble Concert: Connections: Music Matters
Where: Kennedy Center
When: January 19
Tickets: $20 (look for half-price tickets here)
What do earthquakes, sports cars, and memories have in common? Did you immediately say “music”? If you didn’t, you’ll want to come to this new multimedia program to find out what’s going on in research labs around the world. Cellist Yvonne Caruthers is joined by three of her NSO colleagues to take you deep into the world of music and illustrate why music matters–and how it makes you smarter! Recommended for ages 9 and up.

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 acts perform every Thursday and Friday, and touring performers drop by on many weekends. Check the calendar often to see when your favorite act is performing.

Gold
Where: Kennedy Center
When: January 24-25
Tickets: $20 (look for half-price tickets here)
Canada’s Cas Public dance ensemble uses everyday sounds and objects in to explore the joy, humor, and mischief of childhood–all performed to Canadian pianist Glenn Gould’s famous recording of Johann Sebastian Bach’s Goldberg Variations. Recommended for ages 8 and up.

Monster Jam
Where: Verizon Center
When: January 24-25
Tickets: $10-65 (look for a discount here)
The world’s largest and most famous monster truck tour featuring the biggest names in monster trucks will thunder its way into the Verizon Center this month. Grave Digger, Bounty Hunter, Team Survivor, Crushstation and Illuminator are among the vehicular beasts you’ll see tearing up the indoor terrain this year.

Penelope’s Pesky Pen
Where: Theatre on the Run
When: January 25-26
Tickets: $10-15 (look for a discount here)
This lighthearted musical dance performance tells the story of a magical pen with a mind of its own. Inspired by a children’s book by Frank Dormer, the 30-minute performance finds Aunt Pearl and young Penelope setting off on a fun adventure, as they try to figure out what to do with such an amazing and interesting writing instrument. Penelope’s Pesky Pen is the latest all-new children’s production from the multi-award-winning talents at the Jane Franklin Dance Company.

The Amazing Magic of Louis
Where: Old Town Theater
When: January 25, 11am
Tickets: $10
Enjoy a morning of Family-Friendly Magic by Louis the Magician : Nickelodeon’s Award Winner for Best Entertainer in Washington, DC. The Old Town Theater is located at 815-1/2 King Street in Alexandria.

Peter and the Starcatcher
Where: Kennedy Center
When: January 28 – February 16
Tickets: $55-135 (look for a discount here)
A most magical evening of madcap fun, Peter and the Starcatcher is a hilarious romp through the Neverland you never knew! This swashbuckling prequel to Peter Pan will have you hooked from the moment you let your imagination take flight. Peter and the Starcatcher is the innovative and imaginative musical play based on the best-selling novel by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson. A company of twelve actors plays more than a hundred unforgettable characters, all on a journey to answer the century-old question: How did Peter Pan become The Boy Who Never Grew Up? This epic origin story of one of popular culture’s most enduring and beloved characters proves that your imagination is the most captivating place in the world. Suitable for younger audiences, but most enjoyable for ages 10 and up

Aquarium
Where: Atlas Performing Arts Center
When: January 28 – February 2
Tickets: $8
The production from Imagination Stage returns to the Atlas stage for a weeklong run. Young audiences will enter a world where giant jellyfish fly through the air, sheep graze in the grass, and lemons create the sun in a “let’s pretend” sky.

Archimedes & the Power of Math
Where: Publick Playhouse
When: January 28, 10:15am & 12pm
Tickets: $6
The ancient world’s greatest mathematician is brought to life in this entertaining performance that shows kids that math is cool, fun, and powerful. With audience participation and fun factoids (Archimedes held of the Roman Army for 3 years using nothing but math) kids will come away inspired and ready to learn math. Recommended for grades 3-5. Publick Playhouse is located at 5445 Landover Road in Cheverly, Md.

Dream Carver
Where: Publick Playhouse
When: January 31, 10:15 & 12pm & February 1, 11am
Tickets: $6
Mateo is a young Mexican boy whose father has taught him traditional wood carving. But when Mateo has an inspiring dream of colorful singing animals, he wants to carve new things in new ways. This bilingual musical explores creativity, generational differences, and the importance of following your dreams. Recommended for grades K-6. Publick Playhouse is located at 5445 Landover Road in Cheverly, Md.

STOMP
Where: National Theatre
When: February 4-9
Tickets: Start at $40
The unique combination of percussion, movement and visual comedy, STOMP has created its own inimitable, contemporary form of rhythmic expression: both household and industrial objects find new life as musical instruments in the hands of an idiosyncratic band of body percussionists. It is a journey through sound, a celebration of the everyday and a comic interplay of characters wordlessly communicating through dance and drum. Synchronized stiff-bristle brooms become a sweeping orchestra, eight Zippo lighters flip open and closed to create a fiery fugue; wooden poles thump and clack in a rhythmic explosion. STOMP uses everything but conventional percussion instruments – dustbins, tea chests, radiator hoses, boots, hub caps – to fill the stage with a compelling and unique act that is often imitated but never duplicated.

Lions of Industry, Mothers of Invention
Where: Discovery Theater
When: February 4-6
Tickets: $3-8
Discovery Theater’s original interactive play honors the creativity and genius of African American entrepreneurs and inventors including beauty-product magnate Madame C.J. Walker; agricultural chemist and “peanut man” George Washington Carver; education giant Booker T. Washington; and George Crum, the cranky chef who accidentally created the potato chip. The production inspires the dreamer and achiever in all of us.

Rumplestiltskin
Where: Imagination Stage
When: February 5 – March 16
Tickets: $10-25
“This is a story that’s old as old, of how a girl turned straw into gold.” When a poor miller brags that his daughter has a talent for spinning straw into gold, a greedy and zany king commands her to make gold for his coffers. Unable to perform this feat, the miller’s daughter enlists the help of a rotten riddling fairy named Rumpelstiltskin…but his price for helping is high. Will she be able to solve Rumpelstiltskin’s mystery in time to save her family? Best for Ages 5-10.

Raisin’ Cane: A Harlem Renaissance Odyssey
Where: Publick Playhouse
When: February 7, 10:15am & 12pm
Tickets: $6
Celebrate Black History Month and the renaissance of artistic expression in post-World War I Harlem in this production that weaves poetry, fiction, art and music and creates a multi-media window into a critical point in cultural history. Recommended for all ages. Publick Playhouse is located at 5445 Landover Road in Cheverly, Md.

Orphie and the Book of Heroes
Where: Kennedy Center
When: February 8-23
Tickets: $20 (look for a discount here
Spunky and curious Orphie, a young girl in Ancient Greece, sets out to save storyteller Homer and his Book of Heroes in this humorous world premiere musical–a quest that takes her from the heights of Mt. Olympus to the depths of the underworld. Recommended for ages 9 and up.

Songs of Freedom
Where: Publick Playhouse
When: February 11, 10:15am & 12pm
Tickets: $6
Experience Black History through the music of our past. Spirituals that carried secret messages, the blues of Beale Street, and the anthems of the Civil Rights Movement spanned both centuries and continents and made a lasting impact on our culture today. Hear the songs and the stories behind them in this energetic and entertaining performance. Recommended for grades 3 and up. Publick Playhouse is located at 5445 Landover Road in Cheverly, Md.

Disney on Ice: 100 Years of Magic
Where: Verizon Center
When: February 12-17
Tickets: $20-80 (look for a discount here)
Join the celebration as more than 60 of Disney’s unforgettable characters from 18 beloved stories come to life in Disney On Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic coming to Barclays Center January 22 through January 26. You’ll be captivated by the one and only Mickey Mouse, the irresistible Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Donald Duck, Jiminy Cricket, Pinocchio, and many Disney Princesses. Be thrilled by exciting moments from The Lion King, Mulan and Disney/Pixar’s Finding Nemo, The Incredibles and Toy Story films; in a skating spectacular you’ll remember forever!

Under the Canopy
Where: The Athenaeum & The Atlas Performing Arts Center
When: February 12 – 23 & February 28 – March 8
Tickets: $5
Arts on the Horizon’s World Premiere show wants you to imagine a theatrical world designed especially for babies and young toddlers to explore – a world inspired by the wonders of the rainforest! That’s what’s in store for the very youngest audiences and their caregivers when the innovative, nonverbal style of Arts on the Horizon targets their littlest fans. Best for children ages 2 and under (and their 3-4 year old pals). The show will be performed at The Athenaeum in Alexandria February 12-13, then as part of the INTERSECTIONS Festival at The Atlas Performing Arts Center February 28 – March 8.

Sleeping Beauty
Where: The Puppet Co.
When: February 13 – March 23
Tickets: $10
Yet another elegant production created by the Puppet Co., “Sleeping Beauty” combines romance and adventure in a story of fairies, frogs, kings and queens, and of course, a sleeping princess and the gallant prince destined to find her. Told with rod puppets and wonderful special effects, the show is a real treat for princesses and princes, big and small! Recommended for PreK- Grade 4

Bessie and Bill – Black Wings in Flight
Where: Discovery Theater
When: February 19-21 & 25-26
Tickets $3-8:
Daredevil Bessie Coleman barnstormed the country as the first licensed African American woman pilot. Inspired by her grit and perseverance, Bill Powell became a pilot and trained the famous Tuskegee Airmen of World War II. Meet these spunky pioneers of the air in a powerful show that speaks to even the youngest dreamer.

William’s Adventure in Black History
Where: Publick Playhouse
When: February 19, 10:15am & 12pm
Tickets: $6
Enjoy this brisk panorama of 400 years of Black History in America, and meet some of the remarkable people who shaped our country. Audience members join historical figures onstage and experience important events and decisions as they travel into space with Mae Jemison and encourage Rosa Parks to stay in her seat. Recommended for grades pre K – 5. Publick Playhouse is located at 5445 Landover Road in Cheverly, Md.

NSO Family Concert: Peter and the Wolf
Where: Kennedy Center
When: February 23
Tickets: $15-18
Prokofiev’s timeless musical tale of boy vs. wolf comes roaring to life with the NSO and a vaudeville-inspired performance by actor Michael Boudewyns from theater ensemble Really Inventive Stuff. Recommended for ages 5 and up. Go early for an Instrument Petting Zoo, where young concertgoers can get up close and hands-on with the instruments they’ll see played on the stage–from violins, trumpets, and oboes to trombones and percussion–in the Kennedy Center Atrium.

Mammoth Follies& Dinosaur Friends
Where: Publick Playhouse
When: February 25, 10:15am & 12pm
Tickets: $6
Explore the wonders of evolution and learn the facts and myths about the great age of dinosaurs as host Willie Mammoth takes you through a musical revue of songs, jokes, and dance, performed by Smiley the Saber-Toothed Tiger, Bessie the lovable 27-foot long Apatosaurus, Terry the Pterodactyl, and many more lovable dino-puppets. Recommended for grades 2-5. Publick Playhouse is located at 5445 Landover Road in Cheverly, Md.

All the Way Live! with Paige Hernandez and Baye Harrell
Where: Discovery Theater
When: February 27-28
Tickets: $3-8
Rising hip-hop star Paige Hernandez and master beat-box artist Baye Harrell can make anything—from the alphabet to folktales—come to life with a simple beat, a rhythm, and a rhyme. They’ll collaborate on the spot to create some incredible remixes that unfold through dance, poetry, rap, and tracks by DJ Nick Tha 1da in this production created just for Discovery Theater. Recommended for ages 5-12.

Sunjata Kamalenya
Where: Publick Playhouse
When: February 28, 12pm & March 1, 11am
Tickets: $10
Thirteenth century Mali comes to life as both actors and audience tell the story of Sunjata Keita, a young boy who is destined to save his people. Traditional music, costumes, and scenery create a fascinating world where this timeless tale of personal struggle, family love, and community is depicted. Recommended for grades 6 and up. Publick Playhouse is located at 5445 Landover Road in Cheverly, Md.

Cashore Marionettes
Where: BlackRock Center for the Arts
When: March 1
Tickets: $14
This puppet company, acclaimed for their artistry, grace and refinement brings two shows to BlackRock. Both are a series of vignettes set to music by such composers as Vivaldi, Strauss and Beethoven. “Simple Gifts,” at 1:00, is shorter and light-hearted with subjects that engage a family audience. “Life in Motion,” at 8:00, is longer and has more varying tones and themes appropriate for a wider range of ages. Following the 1:00 show, the puppeteers will demonstrate how the marionettes work. Following the 8:00 show, enjoy a Q&A with the puppeteers.

NSO Teddy Bear Concert: Imagination Duo
Where: Kennedy Center
When: March 8-9
Tickets: $20
Join husband-and-wife violin duo–Glenn Donnellan of the NSO and Jan Chong–as they use stories, sound effects, children’s songs, and gems from the classical repertoire to make your imagination come alive!Kids can bring their favorite stuffed animal to these interactive programs and have their teddy bear friend join in all the fun! Lasting approximately 45 minutes, they’re perfect for even the youngest music lovers in your family. Go early for “Musical Playtime” – starting 45 minutes before each Teddy Bear Concert, enjoy music and movement activities especially designed for small children. Recommended for ages 3 to 5.

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
Where: Ford’s Theatre
When: March 14 – May 17
Tickets: Start at $18
Six pubescent students navigate their county’s spelling tournament with anxiety, angst and determination. As the competitors progress with the help of definitions, mnemonic devises and toe-tapping tricks, they discover a new sense of belonging and learn that there is more to life than winning a trophy. This charming coming-of-age tale also invites four volunteers from the audience to participate in each performance, ensuring new and unexpected comedy every night.

Harlem Globetrotters 2014 “Fans Rule” World Tour
Where: Verizon Center
When: March 15
Tickets: $16-150 (look for a discount here)
The world famous Harlem Globetrotters have been thrilling families and millions of fans for 88 years, all the while innovating the game in exciting new ways. Last year, the Globetrotters did something unparalleled in the history of sports and entertainment, letting fans vote on new rules to be used in actual games. It was so much fun, they are doing it again, and there are cool new rules to choose from on this one!

The Autumn 2013 Line-Up of Live Entertainment

Catch Lulu and the Brontosaurus at Imagination Stage this fall

As the weather starts to cool down, local stages will be heating up with lots of great entertainment for families. Here’s where you can find it all, listed in order of start date, with most descriptions coming straight from the theaters.

Potted Potter
Where: Sidney Harmon Hall
When: September 5 – 15
Tickets: Start at $45
Potted Potter takes on the ultimate challenge of condensing all seven Harry Potter books (and a real life game of Quidditch) into seventy hilarious minutes. This fantastically funny show features all your favorite characters, a special appearance from a fire-breathing dragon, endless costumes, brilliant songs, ridiculous props and a generous helping of Hogwarts magic! Even if you don’t know the difference between a Horcrux and a Hufflepuff, Potted Potter will make you roar with laughter. This brilliant family entertainment is perfect for ages 6 to Dumbledore (who is very old indeed).

The Lord of the Rings
Where: Wolf Trap
When: September 6-7, 7:30pm
Tickets: $25
See the shire in a new light at this multimedia event featuring the epic film on huge screens in-house and on the lawn with Howard Shore’s award-winning score performed live on stage. A live orchestra and choir will accompany the on stage and on screen performances.

Jim West’s Dinosaurs
Where: Publick Playhouse
When: September 12, 9:30 am & 11:30 am
Tickets: $4
Jim West’s giant puppets take small fry on a happy prehistoric musical journey through a land full of friendly dinosaurs.  Recommended for grades pre-K-2. Publick Playhouse is located at 5445 Landover Rd. in Cheverly, Md. arts.pgparks.com

Uno, dos, tres…con ANDRES!
Where: Discovery Theatre
When: September 18-19, 10am & 11:15am
Tickets: $3-8
Counting has never been more fun in English and Spanish. Play and dance with Andrés Salguero to songs familiar and new as he uses sing-alongs and movement to share Spanish words and create plenty of bilingual fun. ¡A bailar, niños! Recommended for ages 2-6.

Goodnight Moon
Where: Adventure Theatre
When: September 20 – October 27
Tickets: $19
In the Great Green Room, a Little Old Lady whispers “Hush”, in vain! The humorous antics of a very nocturnal bunny, his magical room, dancing bears, and a red balloon brings to life the most iconic children’s books of all time. Will bunny ever get to sleep? Based on the book by Margaret Wise Brown. Recommended for all ages. *Personal note: This was one of the first shows I took Owen to see when he was still a wee one, and it was the perfect introduction to the theatre world.

Winnie the Pooh!
Where: Workhouse Arts Center
When: Through September 29
Tickets: $12 adults; $8 children under 12 years old
Join Pooh, Piglet and all the rest for an adventurous afternoon in the Hundred Acre Wood! The forest is in a worry when two mysterious new neighbors, Kanga and Roo, move in. On top of that, Eeyore has lost his tail again! Will Piglet come to the rescue? Recommended for all ages. Running time 75 minutes with one intermission. Concessions available before the performance and at intermission.

Lulu & the Brontosaurus
Where: Imagination Stage
When: September 25 – October 27
Tickets: $12-22
Lulu and the Brontosaurus is the story of a feisty young girl who wants nothing but a brontosaurus for her birthday. When Mom and Dad draw the line at the impracticality of a pet dinosaur, Lulu sets off into the forest to find the large reptile all by herself. When she meets Mr. B, it’s clear that this brontosaurus is not interested in being her pet—he wants Lulu to be his pet instead! She has certainly met her match, and nothing turns out quite the way she expects.

Big Apple Circus
Where: Dulles Town Center
When: September 26 – October 14
Tickets: Start at $20
(Read about our experience at the big Apple Circus last year.) It’s the vivacity! It’s the velocity! It’s the LUMINOCITY — the All–New Show from the Big Apple Circus! Venture within the hubbub at the heart of Gotham, where the restless tide of humanity flows through canyons of skyscrapers and shoals of billboards: The dog-walker, whose rowdy pups perform amazing tricks! Businesswomen who arrange to meet, soaring high above on a double trapeze! The rube, a clown-prince among peers, celebrating the mirth of life! Revelry at New Year’s Eve, with teeter-board acrobats flying like fireworks! and a chic couple of wire-walkers suspended mid-air for the event! The humble repairman, climbing the ladder of his imagination! The mounted policewoman, directing a cavalcade of steeds! The flimflam man with his quicksilver moves! The food cart vendor, juggling his produce! Construction workers assembling athletic poses of incredible strength! The celebrated Big Apple Circus Band provides the lively musical soundtrack, and Ringmaster, John Kennedy Kane, will conduct your tour through this luminous cityscape. Run away and join the Big Apple Circus this season for a dazzling, unforgettable spectacle of wonder, merriment and joy!

Teacher from the Black Lagoon
Where: Publick Playhouse
When: October 2, 10:15am & 12pm
Tickets: $6
TheatreWorks USA presents a wonderful new musical revue based on favorite contemporary children’s books. Along with the title work, the audience will meet big stinky “Dogzilla”, “Grumpy Bird”, the “I Want My Hat Back” bear, “Lily’s Purple Plastic Purse”, and the “The Grasshopper and the Ant.” Recommended for grades K-4.

Steamystery
Where: Studio Theatre, Katzen Arts Center
When: October 3-6
Admission: $15 adults, $10/AU community & children under 18,
What is STEAM? Curious Cat and her friends are about to find out. Through song, dance, poetry, and audience participation, Curious Cat discovers the mysteries and delights in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math). Recommended for ages 6 and up.

NSO Teddy Bear Concert: Teddy & Ten Hats
Where: Kennedy Center
When: October 5-6
Tickets: $20
Back by popular demand! Little children love dress-up as much as these playful musicians spinning a story about a teddy bear whose zany collection of hats represents a wide variety of music, from Haydn to Sousa and beyond. This program actively engages children as listeners in an atmosphere of fun. Kids can bring their favorite stuffed animal to these interactive programs and have their teddy bear friend join in all the fun! Lasting approximately 45 minutes, they’re perfect for even the youngest music lovers in your family. Go early for “Musical Playtime” – starting 45 minutes before each Teddy Bear Concert, enjoy music and movement activities especially designed for small children. Recommended for ages 3 to 5.

Mandy the Clown
Where: Publick Playhouse
When: October 10, 9:30am & 11:30am
Tickets: $4
Perfecting the art of goofiness, Mandy is a trained circus artist and kid-friendly clown who juggles, stilt walks, does magic and keeps children fascinated and having fun. Recommended for grades pre-K-2.

Capitol City Symphony Young Artist Concerto Concert
Where: Atlas Performing Arts Center
When: October 13
Tickets: Free for 16 and under
Every season, CCS presents at least one Young Artist concerto concert. This opening concert will include two young winners of the Levine School Concerto Competition: 11-year-old Avery Lin Gagliano playing the First Movement of Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 20; and 14-year-old Yukino Takehara playing the First Movement of Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto.

From Here to There
Where: Atlas Performing Arts Center
When: October 16-21
Tickets: $8
A delightful show for the youngest theatre-goers all about the joy building bridges. (And knocking them down too!) Join two playful characters that climb over, craw under, and even hide behind the bridges they build, using rhythm, rhyme and imagination! A free-play session at the end of the performance invites the children to explore the show’s props. Presented by Imagination Stage collaboration with England’s award-winning Tell Tale Hearts Theatre Company.

Peter & the Wolf
Where: The Puppet Co.
When: October 17 – November 22
Tickets: $10
Peter and the Wolf, performed by TPC co-founder Christopher Piper, is based on Prokofiev’s popular tale of good versus evil, staged with half life-size marionettes. An introduction to the instruments in the orchestra, and to the themes in the work, precedes this story of Peter’s, and his animal friends’, attempts to capture wily “Old Lupus.” Recommended for pre-K – grade 6.

Balé Folclólrico da Bahia
Where: Publick Playhouse
When: October 17, 12pm
Tickets: $20
Brazil’s incredible national dance company takes the audience on an explosive and exhilarating trip to the heart of Brazil, for an hour-long immersion into the colorful history and culture of our Latin American neighbor. Experience the excitement of one of the major folk dance companies in the world. Recommended for all ages .

The Spooky Magic of Joe Romano
Where: BlackRock Center for the Arts
When: October 19, 1pm
Tickets: $14
Magician Joe Romano provides the tricks, and it will be a treat for all! Be amazed at the mind-boggling illusions that this expert entertainer performs. Joe will make a “haunted table” float in the air, conjure a creepy, crawly creature, turn one lucky child into Harry Potter and more! Enjoyed by ages 4+. Pre-show party, with snacks and arts activities, starts at 12pm.

Skippyjon Jones
Where: Publick Playhouse
When: October 25, 10:15am &12pm
Tickets: $6
The popular storybook kitten with the big ears is presented in a musical theatre version, with Skippyjon transforming into Skippito Friskito, the greatest Chihuahua sword fighter of old Mexico! But when the local canines are terrorized by a huge bee, will Skippyjon turn into a ‘fraidy-cat or will he still be top dog?  Recommended for grades K-4.

NSO Family Concert: Halloween Spooktacular: The Sequel
Where: Kennedy Center
When: October 27
Tickets: $15-18
When is it ever cool to “boo” the orchestra? On Halloween, of course! But watch out, because at this frightfully fun follow-up to the NSO’s popular Halloween Spooktacular program, ghoulishly attired musicians might “BOO” you from behind their instruments in return! Don your spookiest ‘ween wear and come early for pre-concert trick-or-treating plus a special Haunted Hall Musical Instrument “Petting Zoo.” Then take your seats for a “spirited” performance as an incognito Ankush Kumar Bahl conducts a new round of goosebump-inducing favorites including the Toccata and Fugue in D minor–J.S. Bach’s most famous organ piece–featuring the Concert Hall’s new Rubenstein Family Organ, the “Ritual Fire Dance” from Manuel de Falla’s ballet score El amor brujo (“Love, the Magician”), “Anitra’s Dance” from Edvard Grieg’s music for the play Peer Gynt, and a selection from John Williams’s score for the Harry Potter films. Recommended for ages 5 and up.

Splat the Cat
Where: Publick Playhouse
When: October 29, 10:15am & 12pm
Tickets: $6
Windwood Theatricals presents a great new musical adventure based on the popular book. It’s Splat’s first day of school and, afraid that he won’t make new friends, he brings his pet mouse for company. When Seymour the mouse escapes from his hiding place in Splat’s lunchbox, the school full of cats goes wild, until the teacher calms things down and everyone learns some important lessons. Recommended for grades K-5.

Tot Rock: Jammin’ at the Smithsonian presents Joanie’s Halloween Party
Where: Discovery Theater
When: October 31 – November 1, 10am & 11:15am
Tickets: $3-8
There’s no reason to scare up an excuse to dance like crazy when the energetic Brooklyn-based, kindie-rock band Joanie Leeds and The Nightlights make their Halloween debut at Discovery Theater. Leeds brings songs from her latest album, Bandwagon, along with other hits and kid-friendly Halloween tunes. The band will be in costume—and families can be, too! Recommended for ages 2-6.

Cinderella
Where: Publick Playhouse
When: November 1, 10:15am & 12pm
Tickets: $6
American Family Theatre’s Broadway for Kids production of Cinderella is an enchanting musical of the classic tale, where goodness prevails and the mistreated child finds lasting happiness. Recommended for grades pre K-5 

Man of the House
Where: Kennedy Center
When: November 2-3
Tickets: $20
In this world premiere, master storyteller David Gonzalez returns with a brand-new, semi-autobiographical solo show about Pablito, a young boy of Cuban/Puerto Rican heritage who searches for his long-lost father while spending a summer in Miami. Recommended for ages 9 and up.

The Young Spectaculars and the Front Yard Adventure
Where: Atlas Performing Arts Center
When: November 6-11
Tickets: $8
Meet brother and sister Andrew and Emma – aka The Young Spectaculars! Energized by their super-powered imaginations, but stuck creating their own adventures near the front porch, they save a cat and a picnic lunch before stumbling upon more than they bargained for. Join the Young Spectaculars for this show intended for the little hero inside all of us.

Aesop’s Fables
Where: Publick Playhouse
When: November 7, 9:30am & 11:30am
Tickets: $4
Jim West returns with a stage full of puppets presenting Aesop’s delightful tales of wit and wisdom, including “The Tortoise and the Hare”, “The Fox and the Grapes” and more, including Aesop himself and his dog Moral, dancing to beautiful music. Recommended for grades pre-K-2.

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Where: Thomas Jefferson Community Theater
When: November 8-17
Tickets: $12/adult, $10/child
When four children stumble upon an old wardrobe, little do they know they would enter the magical world of Narnia. Full of mystical creatures, talking animals and great escapes, this action-packed story by C.S. Lewis shares the triumph of good over evil. The children help Aslan, the great lion and ruler of Narnia, battle the White Witch who wishes to put an end to Aslan’s reign. Join the adventure as four brave kids, one great lion, and an entire kingdom fight for what is right. Recommended for ages 4 and up.

Dr. Dolittle
Where: Northern Virginia Players/Family Worship Center
When: November 8, 9, 15, 16
Tickets:
The classic tale of kindness to animals comes to life in the stage adaption of the original Doctor Dolittle! Animal kindnesses will trot, crawl and fly its way onto the stage and into your hearts in DOCTOR DOLITTLE JR. With a cast of 54, all of the characters we’ve come to love through the stories of Hugh Lofting and the magical movie musical are given new life in the JUST released stage version. The musical tells the classic tale of a wacky but kind Doctor who can talk to animals. The show takes the audience on a journey from the small English village of Puddleby-in-the-Marsh to the far corners of the world in search for the Great Pink Sea Snail–the oldest and wisest of the creatures on earth.

Tot Rock: Jammin’ at the Smithsonian presents Rolie Polie Guacamole
Where: Discovery Theather
When: November 14-15, 10am & 11:15am
Tickets: $3-8
Can you get any hipper than a kindie-rock band from Brooklyn? Rolie Polie Guacamole’s high-energy, interactive shows are a mix of funk, rock, and folk sounds mashed into original tunes about natural living, eating healthy, and staying active. Their latest album, Houses of the Moly, brought them a Parents’ Choice Silver Award. Recommended for ages 2-6.

Capitol City Symphony Family Concert
Where: Atlas Performing Arts Center
When: November 17, 2:30pm & 4:30pm
Tickets: Free for 16 and under
There will be two performances of the popular Family Concert. CCS is very excited to announce a special collaboration with Fourth Wall Ensemble, a hybrid arts ensemble in which musicians are also dancers and actors. The orchestra’s youngest audience members particularly enjoy the instrument petting zoo and interactive performance, as well as a special program book just for the younger set.

Junie B. Jones – Jingle Bells, Batman Smells
Where: Publick Playhouse
When: November 14, 10:15am & 12pm
Tickets: $6
Holiday time is approaching, and the first graders in Room One are creating the perfect party. But when Junie B. draws the name of her arch nemesis for a Secret Santa Gift, she has to decide whether to give Tattletale May what she deserves….or not. Recommended for grades K-5.

The Bully Free Zone with Queen Nur
Where: Publick Playhouse
When: November 19, 10:15 am & 12
Tickets: $6
Folk tales, fables and hip hop take center stage in Queen Nur’s interactive and inspiring performance about accepting others’ differences. A professional storyteller, Queen Nur is also a recognized expert in adolescent psychology and dispute resolution. Her warm and friendly stage presence captures the attention and wins the involvement of young audiences.  Recommended for all ages.

Live Entertainment on Local Stages this Summer

Fly to Neverland at Imagination Stage this summer

As the weather heats up, stay cool — and entertained — with a variety of live productions around the DC-Metro this summer. Here are the shows that will be on local stages, listed in order of start date with most descriptions coming straight from the theatres. Tickets are on sale for all of them, so go ahead and save your seats!

Saturday Morning at the National
Where: National Theatre
When: Thru July 27
Tickets: Free
The free theatre program runs on select Saturdays through July with performances at 9:30am and 11:30am. Musicals, plays, storytelling, and comedy shows are all part of the live entertainment line-up. See the complete schedule of performances here. Tickets are distributed day of performances on a first-come, first-served basis. Everyone must be in line to receive a ticket.

Sleeping Beauty
Where: Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre
When: Thru June 16
Tickets: $12/adults, $10/children
Encore Stage & Studio presents its newest “by kids for kids production: When Briar Rose is born, the King and Queen throw a celebration to welcome their newborn daughter. The whole kingdom is invited, save for one truly wicked witch. In revenge, Evilina casts a sleeping spell on the young Princess; a spell that can only be broken by true love’s kiss. Encore invites you to fall in love again with Sleeping Beauty, an amusing and playful presentation of the well-known fairytale. Special pre-performance music provided by Prelude Youth Orchestra on June 8 & 9 at the 3:00 pm performances. Recommended for ages 4 and up. Running time is 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Bathtub Pirates
Where: The Puppet Co.
When: June 13-30
Tickets: $10
Captain Blackbeard, one of the Carolinas most infamous pirates, is without his ship. So a child’s bathtub will have to do. His motley crew outfits the bathtub with rudder, sail and a Jolly Roger pirate flag. This fanciful production comes from guest artists, Grey Seal Puppets, and has won one of the highest honors in puppetry, the UNIMA Citation for Excellence. Recommended for PreK – Grade 4. Running time is 45 minutes.

Tiny Tots
Where: The Puppet Co.
When: Most 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.

Dr. Seuss’s A Cat in the Hat
Where: Adventure Theatre
When: June 21 – September 2
Tickets: $19
From the moment his tall, red-and-white-striped hat appears around the door, Sally and her brother know that the cat in the hat is the funniest, most mischievous cat they have ever met. With the trickiest of tricks and craziest of ideas, he is certainly fun to play with. And he turns a rainy afternoon into an amazing adventure. But what will mom find when she gets home…?

Puppets Take Strathmore
Where: Strathmore
When: June 22 – August 17
Tickets: Prices vary by performance
This summer, Strathmore will be invaded by “things on strings” for the campus-wide summer festival Puppets Take Strathmore, exploring contemporary American puppetry. The festival includes performances, workshops, and the fine art exhibition No Strings Attached, with activities for adults and for kids. Highlights of the festival include the DC debut of Blair Thomas & Co.’s acclaimed Hard Headed Heart and a Puppet Slam for avant garde East Coast puppet companies to showcase new, shortform puppet performances. The festival also features numerous unique elements to No Strings Attached, including puppets from Heather Henson’s IBEX (daughter of Muppets creator Jim Henson) and The Ballard Museum of Puppetry, as well as vintage puppets, film screenings, photography, representative sculpture and puppets of all shapes, sizes and modes of animation.

NSO KinderKonzert: Peter & the Wolf
Where: Kennedy Center
When: June 22
Tickets: $18
Those wonderful wind instruments give voice to a little boy named Peter and a wolf on the prowl in Prokofiev’s beloved musical tale. A woodwind quintet of NSO musicians–Alice Weinreb, flute; Nicholas Stovall, oboe; Loren Kitt, clarinet; Truman Harris, bassoon; and Laurel Ohlson, horn–introduces young audiences to the storytelling magic of music in this family favorite. For age 4 and up. Go early for the Musical Instrument “Petting Zoo.” Starting one hour before each Kinderkonzert, this hands-on activity in the Kennedy Center Hall of States gives children a chance to get up close with the instruments they’ll see played on stage–from violins and trumpets to oboes and flutes. A project of the Women’s Committee for the NSO.

National Festival Orchestra: Peter and the Wolf
Where: Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, U of Md
When: June 23
Tickets: Free
In this family-friendly performance, members of the National Orchestral Institute play Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf and give their own imaginative musical interpretations of beloved children’s books. The National Orchestral Institute and Festival (NOI) brings together talented young musicians at the beginning of their careers for a month of professional development and music-making. Chosen by a rigorous, cross-country audition process, NOI participants quickly coalesce into dynamic ensembles that perform adventuresome programming.

Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods
Where: Wolf Trap
When: June 25 – August 10
Admission: $10
From late June through early August, Wolf Trap presents Children’s Theater-in-the-Woods, over 70 family-friendly performances at 10:30am Tuesdays through Saturdays. Amidst 117 rolling wooded acres and nestled in a shady grove, the stage is set for lively adventures in music, dance, storytelling, puppetry, and theater. All of the productions are recommended for children between Kindergarten and 6th grade. The full schedule of shows is available of the Wolf Trap website. And you can read a KFDC review of the series from a previous summer here.

Peter Pan and Wendy
Where: Imagination Stage
When: June 26 – August 11
Tickets: Start at $12
Bethesda becomes Neverland this summer, as Imagination Stage presents Peter Pan and Wendy, a swashbuckling adventure with audience participation. In this version of the classic tale of the boy who refuses to grow up, the character of Wendy takes on a more prominent role, as she, too, is having trouble coming to terms with pending adulthood and accepting life’s responsibilities. Wendy wants to play, and Peter Pan is delighted to whisk her away to the magical island of Neverland where children stay children forever. With the help of Tinkerbell, the Lost Boys, Tiger Lily, and mermaids, Peter and Wendy battle the dreaded, but rather funny, Captain Hook.

Tot Rock: Jammin’ at the Smithsonian – Lucky Diaz and the Family Jam Band
Where: Discovery Theatre
When: June 27-28
Tickets: $3-8
Lucky Diaz, Alisha Gaddis, and company rock out with “contemporary family music all dressed up in the ’50s,” says USA Today, which named the LA-based band a best new artist in kids’ music. The Chicago Tribune applauded their “indie pop-rock for seriously groovin’ families.” Recommended for ages 2-6.

Dinosaur Babies
Where: The Puppet Co.
When: July 5-28
Tickets: $10
This DinoRock musical fossil fantasy opens in the bedroom of a little boy named Nelson: “I saw that scary movie about dinosaurs and now I have nightmares.” Nelson is afraid to go to sleep, but with the encouragement of the Dream Weavers (Ingrid Crepeau, Michele Valeri and Steve Little) he does. Together the Dream Weavers and those cute little dinosaur babies help Nelson to conquer his fears and sleep well. Recommended for PreK-Grade 4. Running time is 45 minutes.

Mouse on the Move
Where: Imagination Stage
When: July 6-28
Tickets: $10-12
Mouse on the Move follows two adventurous mice who are ready to explore the world beyond their little mouse-hole. They decide to visit the moon, since it is reportedly made of delicious, mouth-watering cheese. Ages 1-5.

All The Way Live! with Paige Hernandez & Baye Harrell
Where: Discovery Theatre
When: July 9-12
Tickets: $3-8
Anything can come to life with a simple beat, a rhythm and a rhyme. Watch as world renowned hip hop performers collaborate on the spot to “remix” everything from folktales to classical art. Watch as the remix unfolds through dance, poetry, improv and rapping. In this interactive show, everything is “all the way live” and history is revived through hip hop lenses.

Backyard Theatre For Children
Where: Strathmore
When: July 11 – August 1
Tickets: $8/ages 3 and up
A quartet of kid-friendly performances on Strathmore’s tented Backyard Theater Stage will keep kids excited, engaged and moving this summer. Infectious riffs from kindie rock band Milkshake and the ’80s influenced Pop Ups will have whole families singing along to their concerts. Backyard Theater favorite Taikoza returns to showcase the thundering power of Taiko drums and Japanese dance, while DC-based Urban Artistry will teach hip hop dance basics for rambunctious youngsters bursting with energy to pop, lock, and breakdance.

Willy Wonka, Jr.
Where: Kenmore Middle School
When: July 11-12
Admission: Suggested donation of $5
Encore Stage & Studio invites you to a world of “pure imagination” in Stage Door’s musical production of Willy Wonka, Jr. Willy Wonka, owner of the magical and mysterious candy factory is ready to pass on his prized-business to a young, “bright spark.” Five contestants have found the golden ticket, Mike Teavee, Veruca Salt, Augustus Gloop, Violet Beauregarde and Charlie Bucket and are moving on into the competition. Find out which lucky contestant will win his delicious fortune. This scrumdidilyumptious musical is guaranteed to delight everyone’s sweet tooth! Recommended for ages 4 and older.

Video Games Live: Bonus Round!
Where: Wolf Trap
When: July 13
Tickets: $22-55
Power up for a spectacular ALL NEW fusion of live music and cutting-edge visuals from some of the world’s most popular video games such as Pokemon, Super Smash Bros., Skyrim, Journey, Street Fighter II, Earthworm Jim, Donkey Kong Country, Chrono Cross and many more, shown on HUGE screens in-house and on the lawn. Created, produced and hosted by world renowned game industry veteran Tommy Tallarico, top orchestras and choirs from across the globe perform along with exclusive synchronized video footage and music arrangements, synchronized lighting, well known internet solo performers, electronic percussion, live action and unique interactive segments to create an explosive entertainment experience.

Science Spectacular with Eric Energy
Where: Discovery Theatre
When: July 16-19
Tickets: $3-8
Get ready to “wow” your kids with a science spectacular! Eric Energy is a wacky scientist and he will perform visual science experiments that deal with topics like the weather and matter. Kids will be seeing things like vortex fog rings, bubbling potions and more. This is an interactive show so volunteers will be needed! Recommended for ages 5-12.

Legally Blonde The Musical
Where: Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre
When: July 19-28
Admission: $15/adult, $10/child
Encore Stage & Studio presents bubbly and bright Elle Woods, who never takes “no” for an answer. So when her boyfriend dumps her for someone “serious,” Elle upgrades her signature pink for Harvard crimson! This Hollywood blockbuster turned musical sensation will have you dancing in the aisles. Elle proves that being true to yourself never goes out of style. Recommended for ages 10 and up.

The Magical Worlds of Jack Julius
Where: Discovery Theatre
When: July 23-26
Tickets: $3-8
Come see the unique, magical world of Jack Julius as he presents his own style of magic, mime, comedy, and illusion. You will be amazed as you watch magic and art come to life. As always, there’s tons of audience participation – so get ready to be part of the show! Recommended for ages 5-12.

Playing by Air
Where: Publick Playhouse
When: July 23-24
Tickets: $8 by 6/15, $10 after 6/15
The award winning performers of Playing By Air share their sense of playfulness and breathtaking circus feats in this production filled with music, juggling and more…more…

The Legend of Zelda: Symphony of the Goddesses
Where: Meyerhoff Symphony Hall
When: July 27
Admission: $30-75
Based on one of the most popular and beloved video game series of all time, the tour—which has been hailed as a modern classic—features live orchestral performances of theme music from Nintendo’s The Legend of Zelda franchise. The name “Symphony of the Goddesses” refers not only to the concert program but also to the four-movement symphony recounting the classic storylines from The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, and The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past. The performance also will highlight orchestral renditions of music from other series games, including The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening and The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask. Eímear Noone will conduct the full orchestra with arrangements by music director Chad Seiter.

Circus!
Where: The Puppet Co.
When: August 2
Tickets: $10
In grand circus tradition, the “Grandest Show on Strings” features a collection of clowns, death-defying acrobats, and an amazing menagerie of fauna from the farthest reaches of the globe. Performed by Christopher and MayField Piper, many of the acts were built more than 50 years ago by Christopher’s parents for “Len Piper’s International Marionette Circus.” Recommended for PreK-Adult. Running time is 40 minutes.

Sing-A-Long Sound of Music
Where: Wolf Trap
When: August 31
Tickets: $20-38
A few of your favorite things are back! Quickly becoming a Wolf Trap tradition, this Oscar-winning movie will be shown on HUGE screens in-house and on the lawn, accompanied by an audience sing-a-long. It all kicks off with a vocal warm-up and an introduction to using complimentary goodie bags containing a treasure trove of Sound of Music props that ensure a fun, interactive experience. Be sure to dress in your Sound of Music best – the sing-a-long is paired with an unforgettable costume contest.

1 Comment

Filed under All ages, Babies, DC, Educational, Festival, Free, Gradeschoolers, Live Entertainment, Maryland, Music, Ongoing, Preschoolers, Seasonal, Summer, Teens, Theatre, Toddlers, Tweens, Virginia, Weekdays, Weekend

Tagged as Adventure Theatre, Backyard Children's Theatre, Children's Theatre in the Woods, DC Children's Theatre, DC Kids Shows, DC Live Entertainment, DC Summer Entertainment, Discovery Theater, Imagination Stage, Jammin' Java, NSO for Children, Publick Playhouse, Saturday Morning at the National, Strathmore Puppet Festival, The Puppet Co., Things to do with Kids in Maryland, Things to do with kids in Northern Virginia, Things to do with Kids in Washington DC, Wolf Trap

May 5, 2013 · 6:17 pm

Where to Play on the Weekdays: May 6-10

‘Tis the season at Schlagel Farms

Monday – Go strawberry picking! Schlagel Farms in Waldorf, Md, always begins their pick-your-own season ahead of other area farms, and their berries are ripe and ready now. Fields are open daily 8am – 7pm. If weather doesn’t cooperate, check out the list of indoor possibilities.

Tuesday – Combine story and play time at the National Building Museum’s Building Zone. The Book of the Month program is back with readings of “Riki’s Birdhouse” followed by a related art activity at 10:30am & 11:30am. Admission is $3 (free for members), and entry is timed, with guests admitted every hour. After, visit the PLAY WORK BUILD exhibit for even more fun at the NBM ($5 admission, free for members).

Wednesday – Celebrate the International Year of Quinoa, as the American Indian Museum hosts the Bolivian Festival. The five-day event will feature dance groups, storytelling, folk music, art demos, food, and fun for all ages. It’s running through May 12, and museum hours are 10am – 5pm. Admission is free.

Thursday – See wacky marionettes perform feats of skill, daring, and silliness in Clowning Around, a circus performance by Bob Brown Puppets. Publick Playhouse in Cheverly, Md, presents the one-hour show at 9:30am and 11:30am. Tickets are $3/children $4/ adults and can be purchased by calling 301.277.1710.

Friday – Explore and play at Potomac Overlook Park in Arlington. Hike the short trails and let the kids romp on the playground, then visit the nature center where you can see turtles, snakes, and other creatures in terrariums and discover more about the natural world in the Kids Cave. Hours are 10am – 5pm. Admission is free.

Save Your Seats for Holiday Entertainment

The Puppet Co.'s whimsical interpretation of The Nutcracker

The holidays are just around the corner, and along with them some of best traditions of the season — and our local theatres. Take your pick of The Nutcracker productions, see Ebenezer Scrooge on stage, rock out or sing along to holiday tunes, discover celebrations around the world — there are shows to suit all theatre preferences, ages, and wallets. Here’s the line-up of holiday shows, listed by opening date (and most descriptions pulled straight from the websites). Tickets for most are already on sale. And if you have a show to recommend that’s not listed here, feel free to do so in the comments section.

‘Twas the Night Before Christmas
Where: Adventure Theatre
When: November 18 – January 2
Tickets: $17
“‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.” But wait! A mouse is stirring – because Santa missed his house last year. Before you can say “Merry Christmas!”, we’re off on the wild adventures of a mouse, an elf and a spunky little girl who just won’t take no for an answer. Don’t miss this joyful tribute to the holiday season from three-time Tony nominee and Olivier Award winning playwright Ken Ludwig. Recommended for ages 4 and up.

A Christmas Carol
Where: Ford’s Theatre
When: November 18 – December 31
Tickets: $30-65
Join the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future as they lead the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of transformation and redemption. Originally conceived by Michael Baron, this music-infused production captures the magic and joy of Dickens’s Yuletide classic. Acclaimed Washington stage actor Edward Gero returns to play Scrooge. Recommended for ages 5 and up.

The Nutcracker
Where: The Puppet Co.
When: November 25 – December 31
Tickets: $10
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.” Recommended for Kindergarten age and older.

The Washington Ballet: The Nutcracker
Where: Thearc Theater
When: November 25-27
Tickets: $29
Celebrate The Washington Ballet’s golden anniversary with their holiday classic! For fifty years, generations of Washingtonians have grown up loving—and introducing loved ones to–Washington Ballet’s The Nutcracker. In this 50th anniversary year, Septime Webre pays homage to Washington Ballet founder Mary Day’s 1961 production, restaging her original, a historic jewel, in his lush Washington-themed staging. Discover, rediscover, and celebrate this one-of-a-kind Nutcracker production set in 1882 Georgetown and starring George Washington as the Nutcracker, King George II as the Rat King, Anacostia Indians, frontiersmen, and all-American delights. Whimsical waltzes, glittering snowflakes, and gorgeous music, The Washington Ballet’s Nutcracker is a magical journey not to be missed!

Nutcracker Fantasy
Where: The Puppet Co. Tiny Tots
When: November 26 – December 31
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.

Septime Weber’s The Nutcracker
Where: Warner Theatre
When: December 1-24
Tickets: $40-110
The grand, full-scale version of Septime Webre’s production, performed by the Washington Ballet.

Seasons of Light
Where: Discovery Theater
When: December 1-23
Tickets: $3-8
Discovery Theater’s seasonal favorite captures the warmth of many holidays filled with light, in this joyous interactive celebration. Explore the history and customs of Devali, Ramadan, Sankta Lucia, Chanukah, Kwanzaa, Las Posadas, Christmas, and the First Nations’ tradition of the Winter Solstice. Recommended for ages 5-10.

A Beatrix Potter Holiday
Where: Publick Playhouse
When: December 1, 10:15am & 12pm
Tickets: $5
Atlantic Coast Theatre for Youth from Florida presents the famous author at her annual holiday party. Stories including The Tailor of Gloucester and The Rabbit’s Christmas Party come to life on stage with the help of the audience, and Peter Rabbit may even make a surprise appearance.

Annual Holiday Sing
Where: Atlas Performing Arts Center
When: December 4, 4pm & 7pm
Tickets: FREE ($2 service fee to reserve)
The annual free Holiday Concert at the Atlas Performing Arts Center, in collaboration with Capital City Symphony the Congressional Chorus, the American Youth Chorus, and the Atlas Performing Arts Center. An H Street holiday tradition!
Tickets are free but must be reserved ($2 per ticket service fee). Tickets must be collected on the day of the performance at least 30 minutes before the performance. All tickets that have not been collected 30 minutes prior to the performance will be distributed to patrons on the wait list.

Holiday Sing-a-Long
Where: Wolf Trap
When: December 4, 4pm
Tickets: FREE
Kick off the holiday season with family and friends at Wolf Trap’s 2011 Holiday Sing-A-Long! This annual musical celebration hosts a performance by the United States Marine Band and a Sing-A-Long of Christmas carols and Hanukkah songs with choir and vocal groups from the metropolitan Washington area.

A Christmas Carol
Where: Publick Playhouse
When: December 8, 10:15am & 12pm
Tickets: $5
Mr. Scrooge, the ghosts, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim and the whole Dickens gang gather for a spirited musical version of the holiday classic performed by Theatre IV of Richmond. Recommended for all ages.

American Ballet Theatre: The Nutcracker
Where: Kennedy Center
When: December 8-11
Tickets: $29-100
Magical toy soldiers, shimmering snowflakes, mischievous mice, and all the enchanting inhabitants of E.T.A. Hoffmann’s whimsical world descend upon the Kennedy Center for the DC premiere of Alexei Ratmansky’s The Nutcracker. American Ballet Theatre’s artist-in-residence and former Artistic Director of Bolshoi Ballet, Mr. Ratmansky choreographed this new production, which premiered at Brooklyn Academy of Music in December 2010 to rave reviews. Performed with a live orchestra, together with extraordinary sets and costumes by Tony Award winner Richard Hudson (The Lion King), Ratmansky’s new version of Tchaikovsky’s classic unites more than 100 superb performers for a sublime retelling of the beloved story. Join young Clara and her famous wooden prince for the sweetest of all family holiday dreams. Even if you’ve already seen 50 Nutcrackers, you will not want to miss this one by Alexei Ratmansky. This Kennedy Center tradition is the most cherished in DC.

A Children’s Nutcracker
Where: Battlefield High School, Haymarket, VA
When: December 10
Tickets: $15-20
This production from the Gainesville Ballet School features local talent ranging from three years of age through adult professionals. It’s a show you don’t want to miss, with the traditional dances, such as Snow Flake and Sugar Plum Fairy, plus some very special dances with the young ballerinas, such as Blue Bird and Angels. There are two performances, at 1:30pm and 5pm.

Christmas Dreams from The Nutcracker
Where: National Theatre
When: December 10
Tickets: FREE
Saturday Morning at the National, the theatre’s free program for children, has a classic its line-up of weekly performances. Snowflakes and Sugar Plum Sweets will be in the air as the Virginia Ballet Company and School present selections for their magical, glittering Nutcracker. Familiar music, lively dances, lovely costumes and charming characters from Tchaikovsky’s classic confection bring us elegant holiday cheer. Performances take place at 9:30am and 11am, and tickets are required for admission. Free tickets are distributed half an hour prior to the start of shows on a first-come first-served basis. Only one ticket per person, and all attendees must be standing in line to receive a ticket. Children must be accompanied by an adult who remains present for the entire performance. Seating is limited, so get there early.

The Mini-Nut
Where: Montgomery College Cultural Arts Center
When: December 10-11
Tickets: $15/adults, $10/children 12 and under
The Maryland Youth Ballet presents a sweet treat with a delightful, 50- minute, abbreviated presentation of their classic production. Performance takes place at Montgomery College’s Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus.

The Nutcracker
Where: Montgomery College Cultural Arts Center
When: December 16, 17, 18, 22, 26
Tickets: $25/adults, $20/children
This is the 22nd season of the Maryland Youth Ballets beloved, full-length classic. Performances will tale place at the Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center of Montgomery College in Rockville.

Step Afrika! Holiday Party
Where: Atlas Performing Arts Center
When: December 14-18
Admission: $38/adult, $25/seniors & students, $15/child
Come make music with Step Afrika! in the company’s first ever holiday show! Bring the family and experience the best holiday party with the artists of Step Afrika! Who wants to sit still and be quiet for the holidays? Come ready to make some noise and bring in the festive season with a bang!

Rockin’ Hannukah Concert
Where: Alden Theatre
When: December 18, 3pm
Tickets: $15, $10/McLean residents
Yosi and the Superdads play an interactive and humorous family concert filled with klezmer, rock, ska and rockin’ Hanukkah tunes. Recommended for ages 3 and up.