Photo by Marty Sohl/Metropolitan Opera
When the kids are home for winter break, there are two words every parent dreads hearing from their mouths: “I’m bored!” Avoid this complaint by planning an artsy outing. Scroll down for a look at what the local theater scene has to offer right now. And don’t forget about our guide to the best “nutcracker” performances for young audiences.
“The Magic Flute” at the Met Opera
Prepare to be enthralled by Julie Taymor’s The Magic Flute, an electrifying production filled with bright colors and high energy. Families will enjoy whimsical sights, like dancing bears and larger-than-life flamingos, while the opera house fills with the music of Mozart. Through January 4; metoperafamily.org
“A Christmas Story: The Musical” at Madison Square Garden
The beloved 1983 film about Ralphie’s quest for a Red Ryder® Carbine-Actions 200-shot Range Model Air Rifle has taken on a musical identity. The Tony-award nominated “A Christmas Story, The Musical” debuted on Broadway last Christmas, and is back in New York with the help of Tony-award winning director John Rando. Through December 29; theatermsg.com
“A Christmas Carol” at Literally Alive
Fitting for the holidays, this Charles Dickens classic is brought to life with a musical adaptation that promises to enchant audience members of all ages. Through December 30; literallyalive.com
“Mother Africa” at The New Victory Theater
This explosive performance is sure to impress, with a combination of rhythmic music, powerful dancing, and stunning acrobatics that include stilt walkers from Tanzania, jugglers from Ethiopia, and a contortionist from Kenya. Check out our slideshow of the performance, here! Through January 5; newvictory.org
“Fancy Nancy The Musical” at Vital Theatre
Based on the beloved Fancy Nancy book series, this performance takes audiences along with Nancy as she gets ready to perform in the exciting “Deep Sea Dances” show with all of her friends but learns that she’s stuck playing a tree! Through January 26; vitaltheatre.org Also running: “Angelina The Ballerina”; “Pinkalicious The Musical”
“Cinderella” at Children’s Theatre Company
It’s “Cinderella” like you’ve never seen it before, presented in the popular Panto style with cross-dressing evil stepsisters, along with all of the magic, romance, and charm that made this tale the timeless favorite that it is. Through January 5; childrenstheatre.org
“Snow White” at Galli Theater
Little ones who loved this Disney classic on the big screen will enjoy seeing the story come alive before their eyes, as Snow White must escape the ill-intentions of her jealous stepmother. Through December 29; gallitheaterny.com
“Pirate School!” at Symphony Space
Laughter abounds with this one-man, pirate-inspired vaudeville show written and performed by animated New York comedian and actor David Engel. December 28 only; symphonyspace.org
“The Steadfast Tin Soldier” and “Nutcracker Sweets” at Puppetworks
This marionette adaptation by Nicolas Coppola brings two shows together in one playful performance, for a truly captivating experience. December 26 through 30; puppetworks.org
In addition to these theatrical productions, check out the best Broadway has to offer:
“Newsies”
A stage adaptation of Disney’s 1992 film based on the Newsboy Strike of 1899, this family-friendly show will delight with unbelievable dance moves, catchy tunes, and an uplifting storyline. Ongoing; broadway.com
“Matilda”
Based on the heartwarming book by Roald Dahl, this award-winning musical will inspire audience members to take a cue from Matilda about being brave when faced with adversity and standing up for what is right. Ongoing; broadway.com
“The Lion King”
This long-running show brings together everyone’s favorite characters from the award-winning Disney favorite, for a visually stunning performance of spectacular dance, costumes, and music. Ongoing; broadway.com
