Just take a walk around the decked-out, glowing houses in your neighbourhood and there’s no denying that the festive season is already in full swing. Here’s a line-up of enchanting Christmas shows on offer in the region, from heartwarming classics to dazzling pantos, these are sure to get you in the spirit!
By Harriet Goodwin
1. Vancouver
The Gingerbread Men: A Holiday Cabaret, Newmont Stage at the BMO Theatre Centre, Arts Club Theatre Company, 162 West 1st Avenue #203, Vancouver
December 1–17, 2023
Established in 2012 during the Arts Club’s White Christmas production, the dashing debonair quartet The Gingerbread Men promise to whisk you away on a cookie-themed cabaret that serves up witty banter, festive traditions, toe-tapping tunes, buttery-smooth harmonies and a side of ham & cheese.
2. Whistler
Arts Whistler Live! presents: O Come All Ye Soulful featuring Dawn Pemberton and Jodi Proznick at The Theatre at the Maury Young Arts Centre, 4335 Blackcomb Way, Whistler
December 14, 2023
Experience the dynamic collaboration between two award-winning talents – vocalist Dawn Pemberton and bassist/bandleader Jodi Proznick, joined by an all-star ensemble. Their repertoire will include soulful tunes and holiday classics from Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, Ella Fitzgerald, John Legend, Donny Hathaway, Otis Redding, Darlene Love, and other legendary artists and will take you on a heartwarming musical journey.
3. Langley
The Wooden Angel, Bez Arts Hub, 20230 64 Avenue #102, Langley
December 2, 2023
An evening of delightful storytelling awaits you! The Wooden Angel is a captivating Christmas tale, presented with imagination and beauty, delving into themes of courage, hope, and joy. Set in 1908 on the vast Canadian Prairies, the story follows Emiline, eagerly awaiting her father’s return and the completion of his carved masterpiece – The Wooden Angel. In collaboration with Presence Creative Arts, Bez Arts Hub will present this multimedia performance, featuring award-winning actor Jason Hildebrand and festive music by Russ Rosen from Bez.
4. Richmond
Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella Gateway Theatre 6500 Gilbert Road, Richmond
December 14 – 31, 2023
First performed in the 1957 CBS debut with Julie Andrews, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella continues to captivate audiences, and this Tony award-winning musical is coming to Richmond! Grab tickets for this enchanting, funny, uplifting classic musical – it will be a ball!
5. Surrey
A Ringing, Singing Christmas! Main Stage at Surrey Arts Centre, 13750 88 Avenue, Surrey
December 5, 2023
A Surrey tradition for over 30 years, this holiday show from the Vancouver Welsh Men’s Choir, led by Music Director Jonathan Quick and Pianist Karen Lee-Morlang, promises joy, humour, and seasonal magic. Talented soloists will perform favourite traditional and contemporary carols and songs. After all, the Welsh are known for their dulcet singing!
6. North Vancouver
Buddy’s Holly Jolly Christmas at Centennial Theatre, 2300 Lonsdale Avenue, North Vancouver
December 6, 2023
Zachary Stevenson, who is renowned for his role in The Buddy Holly Story, will headline this festive concert featuring hits and seasonal tunes by Chicago trio The Lovettes, and the Legends All-Star Band. The Lovettes are known for their salute to female icons of the 50s and 60s that includes a special tribute to Tina Turner. Hosted at Centennial Theatre, a cultural hub in North Vancouver since 1966.
7. New Westminster
Cinderella, at Massey Theatre, 735 Eighth Avenue, New Westminster
December 29 – December 31, 2023
There can never be too many Cinderallas! And this one will be very different from the last as it’s a traditional British Pantomime! This rags-to-riches story is complete with puns, interactive jokes (cue the audience shouting: “he’s behind you!”), a wacky cast, hilarious antics, colourful costumes and sets, original toe-tapping music, and sing-along parodies. Written by Crystal Weltzin with music by Argel Monte de Ramos and presented by the Royal Canadian Theatre Company, this is sure to be a family favourite.
8. Burnaby
Vancouver Symphony Orchestra presents Traditional Christmas Michael J Fox Theatre, 7373 Macpherson Avenue, Burnaby
December 6, 2023
Bring your loved ones along to hear favourite carols and Christmas music sung by special guest soloists, live with the VSO. Hosted by the beloved Christopher Gaze, enjoy his characteristic antics and storytelling at this festive and delightful evening.
With a line-up so diverse and magical, and these local gems of venues that are accessible by transit, these shows guarantee to spread some joy and create some lasting memories. Who knows, perhaps a trip to the theatre at this time of year will become a new tradition for you and your loved ones?