The holiday music and theater season is upon us. It means ballet and burlesque, tuba orchestras and klezmer orchestras, Christmas carols and Tchaikovsky in three different ways. Unbox some art with help from our guide to all the best things this season.
What begins in the cozy living room of the Silberhaus family turns into a fever dream of mouse kings, sugar plum fairies and magical moments. An honored holiday tradition suitable for families of all kinds, Boston Ballet’s “Nutcracker” is also high art. Tchaikovsky’s timeless score is a marvel. Artistic Director Mikko Nissinen’s vision of classical ballet is warm, nuanced, dramatic and delightful. Let this be your gateway into the art form (follow with “Don Quixote,” March 16-26). bostonballet.org
Since Handel composed “The Messiah” in 1741, the oratorio has performed for millions of people. Maybe a million in Boston alone. Handel and Haydn Society performed the masterpiece for 168 consecutive years. Participate in issue 169. Handelandhaydn.org