The weather outside might be getting frightful, but the Kimmel Center’s lineup for December is so delightful. Regardless if you’re treating yourself or buying gifts for loved one, expect the best selection of shows in town. Watch holiday favorites unfold on stage with the revival of Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas, Silent Night, and many more! These highlights from the Kimmel Center’s calendar, below, are guaranteed to bring holiday cheer.
A Philly POPS Christmas: Spectacular Sounds of the Season!
December 12 – 22
Verizon Hall
Fresh from his Tony-nominated An American in Paris stint, Todd Ellison returns to Philadelphia for this incredible holiday tradition. Bringing his trademark of sophistication and style, Ellison revs up for an all-new repertoire of classics. The show features award-winning African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas Gospel choir and the Philadelphia Boys choir. Join the Philly POP Christmas audience for a night the entire family will enjoy!
George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker®
December 14 – 31
Academy of Music
It’s not officially the holiday season until George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker debuts. This classic production never gets old, and the Pennsylvania Ballet always does it justice. The show features all of your favorite scenes. From the festive family party to the exhilarating battle of the Mouse King, the fairytale continues all the way to the delectable Land of Sweets!
Christmas Kids’ Spectacular
Saturday, December 15 | 11:30 am
Verizon Hall
The Philadelphia Orchestra returns to the Kimmel Center for its annual Christmas Kids’ Spectacular. Over the river and through the woods to the Verizon Hall we go! Its festive celebration features sounds of the season, including a holiday sing-along and selections from Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker.
Silent Night Sing-in
Monday, December 17 | 7:00 pm
Commonwealth Plaza
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! All carolers are welcome for the 200th anniversary of “Silent Night.” Join the diverse ensembles from across the Greater Philadelphia region for a community sing-in. Learn a new and singable arrangement of “Silent Night” to pay homage to the season’s beloved melody!
Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical
December 19 – 29
Merriam Theater
This heartwarming holiday musical has been praised by The New York Times as “100 times better than any bedside story.” A show to delight the entire family, Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical features all of its original musical selections. Come out to join Max the Dog as he narrates the story of his mean green owner. Follow the story of The Grinch’s plan of revenge by stealing Christmas away from the holiday-loving Whos. The musical provides an evening of knee-slapping laughter, elaborate costuming, and whimsical music.
Glorious Sound Of Christmas
December 20 – 23
Verizon Hall
The Philadelphia Orchestra holiday concert featuring the Mendelssolhn Club of Philadelphia will have you repeating its sounding joy. Under the direction of Conductor Bramwell Tovey, its yuletide and brilliant virtuosity has audience members looking forward to the most wonderful time of the year. Make it your family tradition and bask in this festive highlight of the year.
For a full list of events, visit the Kimmel Center’s website. Follow the Kimmel Center on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for updates throughout the season.
