Enjoy Some Very Merry Holiday Theatre This Winter
Get in the holiday spirit by seeing some family-friendly or holiday-themed theatre on one of Vancouver’s many stages across the city. There's something for everyone to celebrate the spirit of the season, from improv comedy to Christmas musicals, traditional plays, winter ballets, singing, and fun original shows.
Tim Carlson as Bilbo Baggins in The Hobbit, Photo: Chelsey Stuyt/Pacific Theatre
Dolly Parton's Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol @ Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage – Now–Dec. 24
Set during the 1930s in the Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee, Arts Club's uplifting Parton musical reimagines Dickens' classic in a mining company town. As a Christmas Eve snowstorm approaches, Scrooge is visited by his deceased business partner and three ghosts who compel him to see life and love anew.
The Hobbit @ Pacific Theatre – Now–Dec. 21
Get lost in the world of Middle-earth for this reimagining of J.R.R. Tolkien's children's fantasy novel that dials up the comedic storytelling elements for a fun two-man romp delivered through some irreverent performances.
Merry/Happy/Jolly @ The Improv Centre – Now–Dec. 29
'Tis the season for love, laughter, and hilariously unpredictable yet heartwarming holiday specials in the form of yuletide glee where you choose all the elements of the ho-ho-whole thing! Help create the perfect holiday show for another cheery choose-your-own-adventure!
Miracle on 34th Street @ Granville Island Stage – Now–Dec. 29
Arts Club's fresh take on a Christmas classic sees the real Santa Claus working as a mall Santa spreading Christmas cheer before things tumble out of control. Skeptical adults doubt his authenticity as stakes rise when he’s taken to court and must prove he's the real deal.
East Van Panto: Robin Hood @ York Theatre – Now–Jan. 5
Theatre Replacement and The Cultch’s wacky annual holiday stage tradition for children and families remixes the classic outlaw folklore as a hyper-localized, joyful musical about saving Trout Lake from the evil Prince Ken.
East Van Panto: Robin Hood, Photo: Emily Cooper/The Cultch
Reflections on Crooked Walking @ Firehall Arts Centre – Nov.30–Dec. 22
Ann Mortifee's Juno Award-nominated Canadian family musical tells the whimsical tale of four people whose journey to find a cure for a mysterious sleeping sickness leads them down a surprising path of self-discovery.
A Christmas Carol @ Presentation House Theatre – Dec. 4-15
Delight in Dickens' timeless story of Ebenezer Scrooge brought to life in this unique atmospheric and scenic reading of a beloved Christmas classic. Experience the transformative journey of Scrooge, as a ghost and the spirits of Christmas Past, Present, and Future help him reflect on his life.
The Gingerbread Men: A(nother) Holiday Cabaret @ Newmont Stage at the BMO Theatre Centre – Dec. 5-22
Art Club's swinging Christmas concert returns to mix a sweet blend of favourite hits with exciting new toe-tapping doo-wop, jazz tunes, holiday standards, and a cappella! Prepare to be whisked away on a dough-lightful cabaret of classic holiday songs and merriment.
Holiday Singalong @ Presentation House Theatre – Dec. 17-21
Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year by gathering for a festive singalong of your favourite holiday songs of the season! Bring your family, friends, and loved ones together for an unforgettable night of music and merriment. Bring your voices and make some holiday cheer.
The Nutcracker @ Queen Elizabeth Theatre @ Dec. 19-22
Goh Ballet’s unforgettable holiday classic has become a favourite annual Vancouver tradition featuring aspiring dancers, the best local talent, and principal dancers from world-renowned professional companies together on the stage. Experience Clara's dream come to life as she embarks on a magical adventure.
Holiday Spirit
Vancouver Christmas Market, Photo: Rick Chung/YVArcade
Along with seeing a holiday show or two, make your night of theatre a full festive day out by checking out other Christmas-themed destinations, special events, or restaurants.
For more holiday entertainment, check out our previous posts on Holiday Lights, Holiday Bars, Holiday Markets, and other Holiday Attractions in and around Vancouver.