We’re approaching the home stretch of 2015 where holiday decorations are everywhere you look and the countdown to Christmas is in full swing.
It’s all too easy to get lost in to-do lists and shopping malls this time of year so don’t let the next few weeks pass you by without indulging in the events that make us laugh, sing, and share in the joy of the season.
The last of three performances for the Rotary Carol Festival takes place this afternoon at the Vernon Performing Arts Centre. Don’t miss your chance to catch this beloved Okanagan holiday tradition. Showtime is 2 p.m. and admission is by donation so plan to arrive early to avoid disappointment.
Caravan Farm Theatre’s winter sleigh- ride show starts this Tuesday.
Bundle up tight for the story of Bedstefader as you’re swept across the scenic and serene acres of Caravan Farm.
Performances of this Danish-inspired winter tale are most nights from Dec. 8 to Jan. 3 at 4, 6 and 8 p.m. Some nights are filling up quickly so visit www.ticketseller.ca for an up-to-date list of available shows to choose from.
On Friday, Dec. 11, the Center Stage Performing Arts Academy is at the Performing Arts Centre with their production of When Sasha Got Swept Up the Chimney. This holiday musical brings the magic of Christmas with fun loving songs, and a humourous and heartwarming story set in Victorian London and a wondrous workshop at the North Pole. Showtime is 7 p.m. and tickets are still available at the box office by calling 250-549-SHOW (7469)
Andrew Allen returns to the Performing Arts Centre on Dec. 12 for a special concert performance: All Hearts Come Home.
His three top-10 Canadian hits including Loving You Tonight, I Want You, and I Wanna Be Your Christmas will be heard among special guest performances by a host of local artists and students. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. and tickets are on sale now through the Ticket Seller at 549-SHOW (7469).
Paul Moore, along with the Kokanee Singers and Inspirati Chorale, presents Christmas favourites in two cozy, festive settings: Dec. 16 at the Zion United Church in Armstrong and Dec. 18 at Knox Presbyterian Church in Vernon.
Join Vernon’s favourite tenor and his students as they invite you to help celebrate the sounds of the season. Showtime for both shows is 7 p.m. and tickets are available by calling 250-549-SHOW (7469).
On Saturday Dec. 19 at 2 and 7:30 p.m., Ballet Victoria (Cinderella, Dracula) will whisk you away to a fantasyland where nothing exists except you, the music and the wonder-filled story of The Nutcracker.
Paul Destrooper’s interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker starts with a traditional family Christmas Eve party where a gift from an uncle unleashes a whirlwind of unexpected vignettes and surprises including cameos by Frozen’s Elsa, James Bond and even some Minions. Tickets for this family-friendly event are going fast so call the Ticket Seller at 549-SHOW (7469) to reserve your seats early.
And the Okanagan Symphony Orchestra is at the Performing Arts Centre Sunday, Dec. 20 for their annual Christmas concert, An OSO Christmas.
The symphony will be joined on stage by guest vocalist Robert Fine for a festive evening of music where singing along to your favourite carols is encouraged. The music starts at 7 p.m. and tickets are on sale now through the Ticket Seller by calling 549-SHOW (7469).
Happy holidays, and enjoy the shows!
Brian van Wensem is the audience development coordinator at the Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre.
