Midland Center for the Arts ushers in holiday spirit with upcoming events

Whether you wait until after Thanksgiving to decorate for Christmas or have already started, one thing is certain: the holiday season is knocking at the door. If you’re looking to fill up the calendar with family-friendly events, have a nice date night out, or laugh your way to the New Year, the Midland Center for the Arts has an entire lineup of events to help kick off the holidays. 

Amy Jo Brown, is a new contract employee with the Center for the Arts, and helps with press releases and media contacts. Brown started a few weeks ago, but says she’s been a long time admirer of the Center’s unique programming. Brown says that programming continues to offer something for everyone, even the ‘Grinch in any bunch.’”

“Our first offering in the holiday lineup is Dr. Seuss’ “How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical,” she says. “The record-setting Broadway sensation is coming to Midland Center for the Arts and features the hit songs, ‘You’re A Mean One Mr. Grinch,’ and ‘Welcome Christmas’ from the original animated special. Max the Dog narrates as the mean and scheming Grinch, whose heart is ‘two sizes too small,’ decides to steal Christmas away from the Holiday loving Whos. Magnificent sets and costumes inspired by Dr. Seuss’ original illustrations transport audiences to the whimsical world of Whoville and helps remind us of the true meaning of the holiday season.” The Grinch runs from Nov.16-20, and tickets for the classic, feel-good holiday favorite start at $26.50.

The same weekend, the Holiday Art Fair takes over the Center. The indoor event features more than 30 artists and vendors, making it ideal for holiday shopping for friends and family. The Holiday Art Fair runs from Nov.19-20, and is $5 per day, or $8 for a two-day pass. Tickets can be purchased online, or at the door. 

Another holiday movie favorite comes alive on stage, with “A Christmas Story, The Musical,” from Dec. 2-4 and Dec. 8-11. The musical follows protagonist Ralphie Parker, as he dreams and schemes his way to getting the gift of his dreams, an official Red Ryder® Carbine-Action 200-Shot Range Model Air Rifle. You’ll witness the infamous leg lamp, pink bunny pajamas, and freezing flagpole along the way. The show is a special collaboration between Center Stage and Youth Theater companies. Tickets start at $13.50 for students and $19.50 for adults. 

If the holiday season screams stress to you, what better way to celebrate than with a lot of laughter? The famous comedy troupe, Second City, brings the smiles to town on Friday, Dec. 9. “The Second City’s Jingle Bell Ruckus” delivers seasonal satire, providing  a great alternative to the same old holiday shows. Imagine your favorite Christmas carols, tales of Rudolph, and more, but with a wicked twist. The interactive comedy revue showcases style, wit, and lots of improv. Tickets start at $25.50 for adults, and the show contains adult language and themes. 
Second City will perform, Fri, Dec. 9, at the Center for the Arts,
“As you can see, we definitely know how to celebrate the holiday season at Midland Center for the Arts,” Brown says. “From comedy to musicals, there’s something for everyone this season. Plus, tickets to some of our other upcoming events such as The Book of Mormon, Kate the Chemist or Winnie the Pooh make great gifts. Not only are they perfect stocking stuffers, they give the gift of live entertainment and experiences that will last well into the new year.”