It’s the holiday season, and that means one thing: holiday shows!  Ballet companies, regional theaters and even some national tours pop up all over the country to spread the holiday cheer.  There’s something for everyone when it comes to holiday shows -- from high kicks and tap numbers to fantasy ballets. That being said, we’re sharing our favorite holiday shows on the stage this season.

1.) Radio City Christmas Spectacular

Of COURSE the first show to top our list is none other than the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, known for the iconic Radio City Rockettes! This show has been around since 1933 and is truly a tradition in New York City. There are 36 Rockettes that line the stage each show.  The production contains some crowd favorites, including a wooden soldier scene where the dancers fall in sequential order to dancing santas!  When you think of Christmas in NYC, this show is definitely the first thing that comes to mind. 

2.) George Balanchine’s ‘The Nutcracker’ by New York City Ballet

Another Christmas classic! When it comes to the Nutcracker, so many ballet companies across the globe perform different variations and versions.  NYCB presents The Nutcracker with original choreography by George Balanchine and musical score by Peter Ilyitch Tschaikovsky.  While the principal roles are played by the NYCB company, they recruit their students from the School of American Ballet to perform, as well. The cast includes 90 dancers, 62 musicians, 32 stagehands and two casts of 50 young students that fill the stage and bring the nutcracker magic to life.

3.) Elf the Musical National Tour

If you love the movie Elf, be sure to check out the musical.  There are two national tours circulating this December, stopping by regional theaters across the country.  The dancers in this musical are super versatile, with special skills that include everything from acrobatics to roller skating! Check out the full tour schedule and purchase tickets, here. 

4.) A Music Box Christmas: The Enchanted Journey at Hersheypark

This isn’t your average theme park show… Hersheypark creates custom productions with the help of RWS Entertainment Group, a progressive company in the dance performance industry that creates award-winning custom entertainment, live events and branded experiences.  This year’s holiday production is directed and choreographed by Chip Abbott, a veteran to the broadway stage.  Join Jack Frost as he takes a journey to restore his powers to create cold and snow in the sweetest place on Earth -- Hershey, PA! For tickets + more info, click here.