Holiday Theater

When the snow is falling, the wind is blowing, and it’s much too cold to go outside, it's time to head indoors for some onstage yuletide cheer! Here are six cities in Wisconsin that offer holiday shows in November, December, and January. Choose from dance, drama, or musical comedy; there's something for everyone to enjoy. What better way to celebrate the season while staying warm!

Eau Claire

Fanny Hill Dinner Theatre
Mr. Christmas
Nov 7, 2012- Jan 13, 2013

Oh no!  Santa has decided it's time to hang up the big red suit, so it's up to one of his elves to find a replacement.  Our pal Rudy has been selected to tryout for the job! Join the folks at Fanny Hill for some holiday merriment- Rudy style! 

While you’re there:
Leinenkugel Brewery  in nearby Chippewa Falls is the seventh oldest brewery in the United States and has been crafting exciting new flavors for five generations. Stop in and tour the brewery and sample some of the four seasonal or the seven year round brews.

Appleton

Fox Cities Performing Arts Center
Elf
Nov 13-18, 2012

One of the most beloved Hollywood holiday hits of the past decade is born again – live onstage! Elf is an original musical that brings to life the heartwarming and hilarious tale of Buddy, an orphan who mistakenly believes he’s really one of Santa’s elves.

While you're there:
The Paper Discovery Center , housed in the former historic Atlas Mill, is unique because, as NE Wisconsin's only science and technology museum, it provides a fun, family atmosphere where you can explore the world of paper through interactive exhibits. You can even make your own paper! 

Hudson

Phipps Center for the Arts
It's A Wonderful Life
Nov 9-Dec 2, 2012

Based on Frank Capra's famous film, this is the story of George Baily, the man who has given up all hope on Christmas Eve until he is visited by his guardian angel.  Clarence shows George what Bedford Falls would be like if George had never been born. A true classic to be treasured by all ages!

While you're there:
Tis the season to step back in time with with a  festive Christmas tour of the unique Octagon House.

Fireside Dinner Theater
Scrooge, the Musical
Oct 25 - Dec 23, 2012


Charles Dickens' time honored tale of redemption in a big, boisterous, sparkling  musical performed by some of Broadway's and the region's best professional entertainers.

While you're there:
The Five Star Antiques Mall is one of the finest antique malls in the state.

Madison

Overture Center for the Arts
Away in the Basement: A Church Basement Ladies Christmas, Nov 17-18, 2012 
MSO; A Sparking Madison Symphony Christmas, Nov 30- Dec 2, 2012
The Nutcracker, Dec 15-24, 2012

Make it a weekend:
Before the show, take a stroll down State Street, and maybe pick up a few last minute Christmas presents at Capitol Kids Ltd., the Chocolate Shoppe, or the University Book Store. Dine at Fresco, the restaurant located on the rooftop of the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art with a beautiful view of the Capitol. Then spend the night at the Madison Concourse Hotel. The next morning visit the Wisconsin Historical Museum featuring a new exhibit, Wisconsin Innovations, before grabbing lunch at the Old Fashioned.

Milwaukee

Marcus Center for the Performing Arts
The Irish Tenors, Nov 25, 2012
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Nov 23 - Dec 30, 2012
The Second City Dysfunctional Holiday Revue, Dec 6-16, 2012

Make it a weekend:
Before the show, spend a few hours wandering through the Milwaukee Art Museum, than have dinner at the Water Street Brewery, home to several award winning hand-crafted brews. Spend the night at the Pfister Hotel, a certified Travel Green Wisconsin business, enjoying everything downtown Milwaukee has to offer. Then, before you leave town, take the family to the Safe House, a spy adventure themed restaurant for lunch, followed by an afternoon at Discovery World learning about innovation, technology, environment, and exploration through interactive exhibits.

This entry was posted in Things to Do, Arts and Culture, Performing Arts and tagged Features and Profiles