A handful of ways to make the most of the holidays with kid-friendly theatrical treats
Sometimes the best things in life are brief - especially during the busy holiday season.
That's why Drury Lane Theatre for Young Audiences performs an hour-long, family-friendly version of the Charles Dickens classic "A Christmas Carol" through Dec. 22. Tickets are $13.
It's just long enough to convey the message of "goodwill towards all" with enough time left over to enjoy some good food and festive ambiance at the Oakbrook Terrace venue.
On select dates, Drury Lane Theatre and Lucille Restaurant offer an accompanying "Brunch with Santa" at 10 a.m. for $10-$55; "A Christmas Carol Breakfast" at 11 a.m. for $15-$20; a Holiday Afternoon Tea at 3 p.m. for $25-$35; and "A Christmas Carol Dinner" at 5 p.m. for $15-$20.
To learn more, call (630) 530-8300 or visit DruryLaneTheatre.com.
In addition to the show's regular run through Dec. 30, Goodman Theatre and Autism Speaks-Chicago present a special sensory-friendly performance of "A Christmas Carol" at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 29.
And, for the first time in the show's 41-year history, there will be a Spanish-translated performance at 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 28. For tickets ($25-$119) and more information, visit www.goodmantheatre.org.
On Dec. 8-24, young children and their families are encouraged to don their holiday finery for Chicago Children's Theatre's "The Beatrix Potter Holiday Tea Party" at The Station in the Pritzker Family Studio Theatre in Chicago.
More than a puppet show, the event includes a tea party with hot chocolate, cookies, festive décor and more, including photo opps with cast members. To reserve a spot ($39), visit ChicagoChildrensTheatre.org.
More than 300 festive costumes, 20 amazing acts, and talented singers and dancers from across the globe are coming to the Chicago Theatre where they'll entertain audiences of all ages with "Cirque Dreams Holidaze," a seasonal extravaganza featuring snowmen, penguins, gingerbread men, and Santa, on Dec. 12-16. For tickets ($25-$125) to the eight-performance run, call (800) 745-3000. Group discounts (10-plus seats) are available by at Grouptix via (773) 327-3778.