The Show Must Go on! Georgia’s Performing Arts Rethink Holiday Performances

As the country has adjusted to the new norms of canceled events, no group gatherings, physical distancing and masks, things couldn't look more different for the performing arts. During a time of year when the holiday tradition of friends and family gathering to see a live performance is in full swing, organizations and theatre companies around the state have created innovative adaptations to ensure that the show will go on.

By offering online streaming, recorded performances or live events with protective measures in place, theatres and performing arts organizations have found new ways to keep the curtain open. In doing so, they’re keeping artists working and earning plenty of applause from Georgians eager to support their communities as they mark the holidays.

A live performance is an experience that can’t be replaced. But, until we can return to a theatre seat again, here are a few ways you can be entertained and enlightened this holiday season. This is not a comprehensive list, so don’t forget to check with your local arts organizations if you don’t see your favorite organization listed – they may have new ways they’ve adapted their performances, too!

Alliance Theatre: A Christmas Carol - The Live Radio Play (Atlanta)
Don't miss the Alliance Theatre’s drive-in production of the holiday classic A Christmas Carol: The Live Radio Play at Atlanta’s Summerhill neighborhood. At this unique event, you’ll enjoy the magic of a drive-in while live actors retell the beloved holiday story with Ebenezer Scrooge, Marley, and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future. Find out more and buy tickets here.

Atlanta Ballet: The Nutcracker 2020 Experience
This Atlanta tradition has brought alternative ways audiences can experience the magic of The Nutcracker with drive-in viewing, on-demand access to a pre-recorded version, as well as exclusive insights on social media. Find out more here.

Augusta Symphony - Holiday Pops!
Now through December 27, the Augusta Symphony is offering on-demand performances of holiday classics like classics like Winter Wonderland, Let It Snow!, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, The Nutcracker Suite, Sounds of Hanukkah, and – of course – Sleigh Ride! Click here to buy tickets now and enjoy at home.

The Georgia Ballet: The Nutcracker, A Drive-In Experience (Marietta)
The Georgia Ballet has taken their rendition of The Nutcracker to the big screen this year for a unique drive-in experience in Marietta. Find tickets and show times here.

Savannah Philharmonic
The Savannah Philharmonic has reimagined their entire season of performances to provide in-person concerts, streaming performances and broadcast television. View their holiday shows and buy tickets here.

South Georgia Ballet: The Nutcracker video performance (Thomasville)
South Georgia Ballet is presenting the holiday tradition of The Nutcracker to watch from the comfort of your home by offering a video of the performance. Accompanied by a live orchestra this is the perfect way for you and your “quarenteam” to enjoy the Christmas season. Find out more, and buy access to the video here.

Springer Opera House: Winter Wonderettes (Columbus)
The Wonderettes is a holiday favorite in Columbus! This seasonal celebration is a live show with many safety measures in place. During the show, your Christmas spirit will be ignited as you sing along to classics such as “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town,” “Jingle Bell Rock,” “Run, Rudolph, Run,” and “Winter Wonderland.” This energetic and glittering holiday production is guaranteed to delight audiences of all ages. Check out the show schedule and ticket options here.

-- Posted December 8, 2020