A performance by Ballet Chicago. (Courtesy of Ballet Chicago)
The holidays are hectic, so why not go eclectic? Here’s a wide-ranging shortlist of good bets for seasonal art, culture and discovery.
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“Manual Cinema’s Christmas Carol” – Studebaker Theater
Shadow puppets plus live music add up to a handmade holiday haunting. Manual Cinema brings cinematic staging to a twist on Dickens’ timeless tale. Here’s some advice for any time of year: See everything Manual Cinema does. Through Dec. 29
“Michael McDermott: Mischief and Mistletoe” – City Winery
One of Chicago’s premier old school rockers plays a winter residency with a show that promises “mischief and mistletoe.” His latest recording, “Lighthouse on the Shore,” is a beaut, reminiscent of Springsteen at his most tender. Dec. 21-23
“Making an Impression: Immigrant Printing in Chicago” – Newberry Library
Immigrants powered the publishing and printing prowess of early Chicago. Intimate exhibitions like this at the Newberry are the tip of the iceberg; you can always go deeper to discover more. Through March 29, 2025
“The Nutcracker” – Ballet Chicago at the Harris Theater
You’ve experienced Joffrey’s Chicago-centric production of “The Nutcracker” and now crave tradition. What to do? Ballet Chicago here presents a time-honored take with its company of dancers and students. Dec. 20-22
“Tammy McCann – Merry Christmas, Baby!” – Winter’s Jazz Club
Lots of people sing Christmas songs, and some of them can even sing. But if you want to hear a real pro with soul-stirring vocals, check out Tammy McCann and her quartet at this classy club in Streeterville. Dec. 21
Marc Vitali is the JCS Fund of the DuPage Foundation Arts Correspondent.