Home to the Washington Ballet, D.C. is the perfect place to experience a holiday performance.
This is the organization’s 74th year in operation, producing great dancers and performances.
Washington Ballet creates fresh interpretations of classical ballets in theatres all around D.C., And the Washington Ballet is only one of the many dance organizations in the city.
There are many unforgettable places to see a ballet in Washington DC this winter. Check out this list of the best places to see a ballet in the heart of our Nation’s Capital.
THEARC Theater
If you’re looking for things to do this holiday season, THEARC Theatre should be the first place you look.
The Town Hall Education Arts Recreation Campus is a cultural campus.
One of the campus’ main aspects is the THEARC Theater, which has amazing performances, including some of the best Christmas shows in D.C.
The Washington Ballet will be performing ‘The Nutcracker’ at THEARC Theatre on November 23-24. This classical ballet comes to life as over 100 dancers take the stage in original period costumes and festive set designs.
If you aren’t familiar with this musical, it takes place in 1882 Georgetown. On Christmas Eve, Clara and her family prepare for holiday traditions, and Clara is gifted a special nutcracker. After falling asleep, Clara’s dream begins, and a battle between the nutcracker and Rat King ensues.
Highlights of Ballet and Holiday Performances in Washington DC
Washington Ballet’s Rich History: Washington Ballet has been a staple in the DC arts scene for 74 years, offering fresh interpretations of classical ballets and unforgettable performances.
THEARC Theater’s Holiday Performances: THEARC Theater is a cultural hub featuring “The Nutcracker” by the Washington Ballet on November 23-24, with over 100 dancers, period costumes, and festive set designs.
Warner Theatre’s Holiday Shows: This historic venue showcases multiple performances, including the Washington Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” from November 30 to December 29, alongside other events like “A Magical Cirque Christmas” and “A Drag Queen Christmas.”
Kennedy Center’s Eisenhower Theater Highlights: The Eisenhower Theater hosts the Atlanta Ballet’s rendition of “The Nutcracker” (November 27-December 1), along with events like “NPR’s A Jazz Piano Christmas” and “A Candlelight Christmas” by the Washington Chorus.
Atlas Performing Arts Center’s Cultural Focus: This non-profit venue offers family-friendly performances like Step Afrika!’s “Magical Musical Holiday Step Show” (December 12-22), blending holiday themes with energetic dance.
Ford’s Theatre’s Historic Charm: Known for its historic significance, Ford’s Theatre presents “A Christmas Carol” (November 21-January 1), providing a music-infused holiday classic for all ages.
Year-Round Arts Opportunities in DC: Beyond the holiday season, Washington DC offers year-round arts, including musicals, concerts, gallery exhibitions, and volunteer opportunities.
Artistic Community and Living in DC: Washington DC is a thriving artistic community, making it an ideal place to explore arts and culture, with numerous apartment options for those looking to move.
Warner Theatre
Any online search of “nutcracker performance near me,” will bring results of shows at Warner Theatre.
This Theatre dates back to the 1920s and has since been home to many legendary performances.
Kicking off the holiday season, you’ll have more chances to catch the Washinton Ballet’s rendition of ‘The Nutcracker‘. With performances from November 30 until December 29, there’s bound to be a show that fits into your busy holiday schedule.
Warner Theatre also hosts holiday shows beyond ballet.
On November 22, guests can enjoy ‘A Magical Cirque Christmas’.
Relish in the magic of Christmas as you watch amazing cirque dancers from all over the world perform on one stage.
Of course, all acts are accompanied by classical Christmas music and fit for fans of all ages.
Head back to Warner Theatre on November 23 to experience ‘A Drag Queen Christmas’.
This show features drag queens performing to their favorite Christmas songs. While all ages are welcome, expect adult content at this show.
Kennedy Center’s Eisenhower Theater
The Kennedy Center is home to Eisenhower Theater, a relatively new venue to enjoy Christmas concerts in D.C.
The Theatre was opened in 2018 after a $17.9 million renovation of Kennedy Center. Eisenhower Theater sits 1,164 audience members and has an orchestra pit that holds 35 musicians.
From November 27 until December 1, fans of ‘The Nutcracker’ can see the rendition by the Atlanta Ballet.
This is actually the first time this performance will appear outside of Atlanta, so D.C. patrons are in for a treat.
The Atlanta Ballet’s performance is unique with larger-than-life set designs and video projections.
Eisenhower Theater will also host ‘NPR’s A Jazz Piano Christmas’ on December 7.
Several jazz pianists gather at the theater to perform their renditions of Christmas classics. This is a highly anticipated performance with only two seatings, so it’s recommended you get your tickets early.
Another great Christmas performance at Eisenhower Theater is The Washington Chorus’ ‘A Candlelight Christmas.’
This performance runs from December 15-22 and features a 200-voice choir accompanied by high school ensembles. Guests are invited to sing-along to their favorite Christmas classics.
And don’t forget to check out the Kennedy Center’s new edition: The Reach DC.
Atlas Performing Arts Center
If you’re looking for a more cultured Christmas theatre, plan to visit the Atlas Performing Arts Center this season.
This non-profit venue promotes arts of all types, ranging from Theatre to dance and even film.
Not only do they host productions throughout the year, but they also hold art-education initiatives and free events to help spread the love of art.
So not only will you see a great performance at the Atlas Performing Arts Center, but you’re also supporting a great cause.
This season, enjoy Step Afrika! ‘s ‘Magical Musical Holiday Step Show’ at the Theatre December 12-22.
This is an interactive, family-friendly show that features energetic beats from Step Afrika. The performers put a holiday spin on the show with festive costumes, music, and props.
Ford’s Theatre
If you’re asking where all the best Christmas shows near me are, look no further than Ford’s Theatre.
Ford’s Theatre is the historic site of President Abraham Lincoln’s assassination.
During the day, you can explore the museum and embark on a guided tour to learn more about the events of April 14, 1865. But, the Theatre still holds performances to this day for guests to enjoy.
While not technically a ballet, Ford’s Theatre is hosting one of the most popular Christmas performances this year — ‘A Christmas Carol’. Join the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future from November 21 through January 1.
This music-infused classic is a great way for an audience of all ages to remember the reason for the season.
Beyond the Best Places to See a Ballet in Washington DC
As you now know, Washington D.C. is home to some of the best places to see a ballet.
But Christmas time isn’t the only time you can enjoy the arts in Washington D.C. Along with hosting ballets year-round, the city is a huge artistic community.
Keep up to date with these venue calendars to discover amazing musicals, concerts, and even gallery exhibitions, and volunteer opportunities during the holidays.
If you’re ready to explore the arts year-round, consider moving to Washington D.C., the home of our apartments.
Schedule a Visit
Ready to see what DC Apartments for Rent has to offer? Schedule a visit today and discover your new home in the heart of Washington DC!
Frequently Asked Questions About Ballet and Holiday Performances in Washington DC
What is the history of the Washington Ballet?
The Washington Ballet has been a cornerstone of the DC arts community for 74 years, offering fresh interpretations of classical ballets and delivering unforgettable performances throughout the city.
What performances can I see at THEARC Theater during the holidays?
THEARC Theater features “The Nutcracker” by the Washington Ballet on November 23-24. This production includes over 100 dancers, period costumes, and festive set designs, set in 1882 Georgetown.
What holiday shows does the Warner Theatre offer?
The Warner Theatre hosts the Washington Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” from November 30 to December 29, as well as other holiday events like “A Magical Cirque Christmas” and “A Drag Queen Christmas.”
What can I expect from holiday performances at Kennedy Center’s Eisenhower Theater?
The Eisenhower Theater features the Atlanta Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” from November 27 to December 1, as well as events like “NPR’s A Jazz Piano Christmas” and “A Candlelight Christmas” by the Washington Chorus.
What makes the Atlas Performing Arts Center unique?
The Atlas Performing Arts Center is a non-profit venue promoting various art forms. This holiday season, it hosts Step Afrika!’s “Magical Musical Holiday Step Show” from December 12-22, a family-friendly and interactive performance with holiday flair.
What is special about Ford’s Theatre during the holiday season?
Ford’s Theatre, known for its historic significance, presents “A Christmas Carol” from November 21 to January 1. This music-infused holiday classic is suitable for all ages and embodies the spirit of the season.
Are there arts and cultural events in Washington DC year-round?
Yes, Washington DC offers a thriving arts scene year-round, including musicals, concerts, gallery exhibitions, and volunteer opportunities, making it a cultural hub beyond the holiday season.
Why is Washington DC a great place for art lovers to live?
With its vibrant artistic community, Washington DC is an ideal city for exploring arts and culture. It also offers numerous apartment options for those interested in living in the heart of this cultural hotspot.
