The holidays wouldn't be complete without the festive soundtracks and beloved stories of the season. Thankfully, Kansas City's arts community has gifted us with a variety of professional performances. Gather up the family and create lifelong memories at one of these holiday musical events.
Handel's Messiah
Dec. 6-8, Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts
Experience the magic of this centuries-old masterpiece brought to life by nearly 200 singers, including the Kansas City Symphony Chorus and special guest vocalists. The superior acoustics of Helzberg Hall ensures that you won't miss a single note.
Christmas Festival
Dec. 20-23, Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts
The Kansas City Symphony's annual Christmas Festival is fun for the entire family. Featuring holiday music, handbells, choirs and the Big Man himself, the celebration is sure to be a highlight of the season. Plus, Helzberg Diamonds gives away a special jewelry prize at each performance—no purchase necessary!
A Charlie Brown Christmas
Through Dec. 29, The Coterie
The animated classic by Charles Schulz comes to life on The Coterie stage! Join Charlie as he attempts to direct the school's Christmas pageant. When he feels that the true meaning of Christmas is lost, he tries to revive it with a simple little fir tree. A live jazz trio performs Vince Guaraldi's original arrangements.
The Nutcracker
Dec. 8, 14-15, 21-24, Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts
Kansas City Ballet's annual tradition of E.T.A. Hoffman's The Nutcracker is a holiday classic that spans generations. This iconic story features exquisite costumes, grand sets and captivating choreography. Guests can have their photo taken with one of the characters from The Nutcracker one hour before and immediately after each performance.
A Christmas Carol
Through Dec. 29, Kansas City Repertory Theatre
Based on the novel by Charles Dickens, the Kansas City Repertory Theatre's production of A Christmas Carol has been a beloved tradition for decades. Join Ebenezer Scrooge on his redemptive journey with Christmas Past, Present, and Future, and rediscover the true meaning of the holidays.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Dec. 7, Sprint Center
The multi-platinum and critically acclaimed progressive rock group returns to Kansas City for two mesmerizing performances. The unforgettable show that started it all, "Christmas Eve and Other Stories," is back with all-new staging and effects.