There’s so much going on this month around the Bay Area as arts groups celebrate the holidays. The following list is in no way complete; just a sampling of the many great events happening this year.
Zachary Quinto (movie’s Mr. Spock) narrates Peter & the Wolf with the SF Symphony Youth Orchestra twice on Sunday, December 10.
Attending a performance of A Chanticleer Christmas would get even Ebeneezer Scrooge into the holiday spirit! The incomparable a cappella group is one of those great Bay Area traditions this time of year. Various venues now through December 23.
The ethereal Eastern European sound of the all-woman choir, KITKA ushers in the holidays with their annual Wintersongs concerts. Various venues through December 21.
The grand-daddy of them all, SF Ballet’s Nutcracker opens at the stunning War Memorial Opera House on December 13. I love seeing all the little girls in the audience dressed up in their fancy dresses and Mary Janes.
Had your fill of Nutcrackers over the years? Check out Mark Morris’ hilarious send-up of traditional Nutcrackers, The Hard Nut. Same great music and amazing dancing but the laughter is non-stop. December 15-24 at Cal Performances.
Celebrate Hanukkah with a wild performance by Kugelplex, beloved purveyor of Klezmer and old-world party music. Saturday, December 17 at Old First Church.
For an unforgettable Messiah experience, see the American Bach Soloists at Grace Cathedral. The massive space makes for a gorgeous rich sound. Beginning December 13.
Carols in the California is Symphony Silicon Valley’s annual holiday celebration, including an audience sing-along. A great way to enjoy San Jose’s festive Christmas-time downtown. Saturday, December 9.
How can you get into the holiday spirit and burn a bunch of calories at the same time? When you attend the Oakland Symphony’s Hallelujah! Let Us Break Bread Together concert, it’s impossible to sit still, or even sit for that matter. This year’s choral extravaganza is a tribute to Prince and Leonard Cohen. Sunday, December 10 at the Paramount.
