Anne Arundel Shows And Concerts Bring Holiday Cheer To The Stage

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From ballets to concerts to musicals, there are many opportunities to celebrate the wonder of Christmas through the magic of theater. Enjoy a festive night out with friends and family and watch performances of holiday favorites such as “The Nutcracker,” Handel’s “Messiah” and more.

“Elf The Musical”

Presented by Toby's Dinner Theatre
Through January 4, 2026
www.tobysdinnertheatre.com

In Toby’s Dinner Theatre’s production of a modern holiday classic, Buddy, a young orphan who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts, is transported to the North Pole. Unaware that he is actually human, Buddy grows up among elves, but his size and poor toy-making abilities force him to face the truth. “Elf The Musical” tells the story of Buddy embarking on a journey to New York City to find his biological father, discover his true identity, and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas.

“The Nutcracker”

Presented by Ballet Theatre of Maryland at Coppermine Pantherplex and Maryland Hall
November 23, December 13-21
www.balletmaryland.org/nutcracker

This holiday season, experience the world premiere of Annapolis’ own adaptation of “The Nutcracker” with Ballet Theatre of Maryland. The familiar story takes on local significance through vibrant dancing, historic costumes and festive sets. Beloved characters like Clara, her enigmatic Uncle Drosselmeier and the brave Nutcracker return with new depth as their stories weave into the history of 19th-century Annapolis.

“White Christmas”

Presented by Classic Theatre of Maryland
November 28 — December 28
www.classictheatremaryland.org

Join Classic Theatre of Maryland (CTM) for a beloved holiday classic brought to life onstage. “White Christmas” follows two World War II veterans who team up with a sister act to save a failing Vermont inn, spreading love, laughter and the timeless magic of the season — complete with Irving Berlin’s unforgettable songs and dazzling dance numbers.

Trident Brass Holiday Concert

Presented by the United States Naval Academy
December 3
navyperforms.showare.com

The U.S. Naval Academy Band Superintendent’s Combo and the Trident Brass Jazz Ensemble will present an evening of holiday jazz. Presented in collaboration with the academy’s musical activities department and the Naval Academy Band, the concert will include timeless, festive classics in the yuletide repertoire for both small and large jazz band settings. At the end of the concert, the two ensembles will combine to perform together. Featured soloists will include all the members of the Superintendent’s Combo and the vocalists of Trident Brass.

“A Christmas Carol”

Presented by Classic Theatre of Maryland
December 4-27
www.classictheatremaryland.org

Experience the timeless story of redemption and holiday spirit in CTM’s original adaptation by Sally Boyett and Donald Hicken. Follow Ebenezer Scrooge on his journey from miserly cynicism to heartfelt generosity, brought to life with memorable characters, festive cheer and the magic of Christmas.

“DFC’s Holiday Cabaret”

Presented by Children’s Theatre of Annapolis
December 5
www.ticketleap.events/events/cta-md

Children’s Theatre of Annapolis will hold its third annual DFC’s Holiday Cabaret on December 5 from 7:00pm-9:00pm. Named in honor of CTA community member Darrell F. Conley after his passing in 2023, the cabaret will honor his memory and bring Christmas cheer. The festive event will showcase beloved holiday classics.

Winter Dance Concert

Presented by AACC Dance Company
December 5-6
www.aacc.edu/calendar

Anne Arundel Community College Dance Company invites audiences to a winter dance concert that reimagines “The Nutcracker Suite” with both Duke Ellington’s swinging jazz suite and Tchaikovsky’s timeless music. The program opens with original works created and performed by company dancers, showcasing fresh voices and vibrant choreography. The evening concludes with “Suite Dreams: Clara’s Return,” where audiences journey with Clara back to a cherished place from her childhood. Celebrate the season with a blend of tradition and jazz-infused surprise.

“A Charlie Brown Christmas” With Eric Byrd Trio

Presented by Maryland Hall
December 5-6
https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=286913

Maryland Hall is bringing a beloved classic to the stage to delight audiences, from kids to grandparents. Relive “A Charlie Brown Christmas” as the Eric Byrd Trio performs the iconic jazz soundtrack from the Peanuts holiday special, filling hearts with nostalgia and holiday cheer.

Audiences can expect spirited, heartfelt interpretations of pieces like “Linus and Lucy” and “Christmas Time Is Here,” delivered with the trio’s signature mix of jazz mastery and crowd-pleasing charm. The show is meant to be a wonderful choice for families, Charlie Brown fans, jazz enthusiasts, and anyone hoping to soak up the spirit of the season right here in the community.

“Wonder and Glory” Christmas Concert

Presented by Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church
December 6
www.woodstix.org

The “Wonder and Glory” Christmas concert will include the adult choir, praise band, SEEK band, children’s choir, Woods dancers, Elysian Dance Theater, guest musicians and members of the Woods family telling the stories of their Christmas treasures. They will sing popular Christmas carols and enjoy the sounds and the music of the season. This concert is free, but registration is required.

Handel’s “Messiah”

Presented by the United States Naval Academy
December 6-7
navyperforms.showare.com

Continuing a long-standing tradition, the United States Naval Academy (USNA) Glee Club combines with professional orchestra and world-class soloists to present selections from Handel’s beloved “Messiah” on Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon. Conducted by Aaron Smith, USNA director of musical activities, this elegant concert has been broadcast on public television stations both regionally and nationwide.

Benfield Brass Holiday Concert

Presented by Benfield Brass Band at Our Shepherd Lutheran Church
December 7
Benfield Brass Band on Facebook

Benfield Brass will perform a variety of holiday favorites at Our Shepherd Lutheran Church on December 7 at 7:00pm. The concert is free and open to the public. The band is a nonprofit volunteer organization consisting of about 35 members.

“The Nutcracker”

Presented by The Dance Center at Severna Park Community Center; held at Severna Park High School
December 7
www.spcommunitycenter.org/events

Step into the magical world of sugar plum fairies and toy soldiers this season. The Dance Center at Severna Park Community Center invites you to experience the enchanting tale of “The Nutcracker.” Perfect for the whole family, this timeless classic will spark your imagination, touch your heart, and transport you to a winter wonderland like no other.

“Celebration of Christmas”

Presented by Live Arts Maryland at Maryland Hall
December 12
www.liveartsmd.org/celebrationofchristmas

Live Arts Maryland not only decks the halls but also floods them with sound. “Celebration of Christmas” brings snow-dusted harmonies and velvet brass to Maryland Hall, featuring classic holiday favorites. Think “White Christmas” meets “Sleigh Ride” — plus a sing-along led by Maestro J. Ernest Green.

“A Merry Mix-Up”

Presented by The Talent Machine Company
December 12-23
www.talentmachine.com

A high-energy musical revue, Talent Machine’s annual holiday production, “A Merry Mix-Up,” will feature Rudolf, elves, Frosty the Snowman and, of course, the illustrious Santa himself. The annual holiday spectacular is celebrating 38 years of magic. This year’s cast of 54 kids ages 7-18 come from across Central Maryland and represent more than 20 area schools and the home-schooled community.

“Christmas Brass”

Presented by the Big Brass Band of Northern Virginia at Severna Park United Methodist Church
December 13

Comprised of 30 of the Washington D.C. metro area’s finest brass and percussion players, the Big Brass Band of Northern Virginia will present a festive program blending sacred and secular selections — from cherished carols and hymns to sparkling arrangements of seasonal favorites — all performed in the rich, resonant sound of the traditional British-style brass band. Welcome the holidays with family members, friends and live music on Saturday, December 13, at 7:00pm. The concert is free with a freewill offering option at the door.

“Winter Daydreams” Piano Recital

Presented by Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church
December 13

Join Woods Church pianist and organist Junghoon Park for a recital on December 13 at 2:00pm. The program features “Chaconne” by Bach/Busoni, the complete “Études” Opus 10 by Chopin, and “The Nutcracker Suite” by Tchaikovsky/Pletnev. The event is free, and registration is not required. A love offering will be collected to support the Woods music ministry.

“The Nutcracker”

Presented by the Chesapeake Ballet Company at Children’s Theatre of Annapolis
December 13-21
chesapeakeballetcompany.ludus.com

Chesapeake Ballet Company is celebrating 21 enchanting seasons of “The Nutcracker.” Step into a world of dancing snowflakes, battling mice, and sugarplum dreams in this beloved holiday tradition. This year’s production features stunning new choreography, exquisite costumes and a cast of talented local dancers.

Holiday Pops

Presented by the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra at various locations
December 19-21
www.annapolissymphony.org/events

Get ready to experience one of the most beloved traditions in Annapolis — the annual Holiday Pops concert hosted by the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra (ASO). This festive season, join the ASO and its 70 world-class musicians as they bring the joy, beauty and warmth of the holidays to life with a dazzling mix of classic carols and heartwarming holiday tunes. The Bowie State University concert choir will join the ASO for performances at Maryland Hall and Bowie State University. The December 20 performance will be held at Severna Park High School.

Handel’s “Messiah”

Presented by Live Arts Maryland at St. Anne’s Episcopal Church
December 20-21
www.liveartsmd.org/messiah

Experience the awe and beauty of the season with the Annapolis Chorale’s candlelight performances of Handel’s “Messiah” at the historic St. Anne’s Episcopal Church. Under the baton of J. Ernest Green, joined by stellar soloists and the acclaimed Annapolis Chamber Orchestra, this beloved oratorio comes to life surrounded by the warm glow of candlelight and the rich acoustics of St. Anne’s.

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