10 Virtual Holiday Performances in the Triangle Worth Watching

From the Nutcracker to Christmas caroling, there are lots of virtual holiday productions this year, so you don’t have to miss out on your favorite festive shows.

by Isabella Sherk

If you’re missing the arts this holiday season, here are some festive performances and events to check out virtually. Make it a whole night: grab take out from your a local spot and mix a festive drink — heck, dress up if you want to! — then settle in for a cozy holiday performance from the comfort of your home.

Theatre in the Park’s A Christmas Carol

Stream a recorded version of Ira David Wood III’s A Christmas Carol anytime this month to enjoy his joke-filled, musical take on the classic story of Scrooge’s redemption. Learn more about what goes on with the cast behind the scenes of the production in WALTER’s December issue. Starting December 1; from $37.54 for the individual link; theatreinthepark.com

The Justice Theatre Project’s Black Nativity

The Justice Theater Project is offering an all-new take on Langston Hughes’ groundbreaking musical Black Nativity, written and directed by N.C. Central theater department chair Dr. Asabi (Stephanie Howard). Learn more about how the script, music and dance in the 2020 production are being adapted for video in WALTER’s December issue. See website for details; available Dec. 11; from $15 for the individual link; virtual

Hip Hop Nutcracker

One good thing about virtual events is that you’re given access to stages all over the world. This year, see a hip hop twist on the classic Nutcracker performed in New Jersey through DPAC. The Nutcracker is reimagined in this show choreographed and directed by Jennifer Weber, with contemporary dance to the Nutcracker’s lasting soundtrack. Dec. 12; see website to buy tickets

Raleigh Ringers Virtual Holiday Concert

The Raleigh-based handbell choir is bringing their annual holiday concert to you virtually this year. Bring the holiday spirit into your home this year with this classic concert. This free event will be broadcasted live on YouTube on Dec. 13 at 4 p.m. See website for more information

A Christmas Carol from Playmaker’s Repertory Company 

Playmaker’s Repertory Company is doing a classic this year: A Christmas Carol. But instead of viewing the production on-stage, it will take the form of a “radio drama,” as Ray Dooley plays every character. Once you buy a ticket, you can stream the production as many times as you’d like between Dec. 14 to 27. See website to buy tickets.

NC Master Chorale’s Joy of the Season Concert

Join our state’s Master Chorale from your cozy couch or a crackling fire and experience their annual Joy of the Season concert virtually this year with classics like Joy to the World and Silent Night as well as intricate arrangements of old English and Baroque fare, and jazzy choral takes on modern pop. Dec. 15; 7:30 p.m; $15 per ticket.

Raleigh Boychoir Carols of Christmas

The Raleigh Boychoir is having its Carols of Christmas concert on Dec. 18 at 7 p.m. Tune in virtually to hear the songs of the season from an acclaimed choir. See website for more details and to register for the event.

Choral Society of Durham Sing-Along

Charol from home with the Choral Society of Durham’s virtual sing-along, no signing experience is necessary and they plan to play tunes catered to all ages. Register in advance to receive the access link and download the tunes. Grab a refreshment, choral your friends and family to sing with folks from all over the triangle. Sunday, Dec. 20 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm; virtual; See website for details.

The North Carolina Symphony’s Christmas Concert

In December, the North Carolina Symphony is holding many virtual performances that can be streamed from your home. On Dec. 23, they are streaming a Christmas concert with classic songs such as Silent Night, Hark! the Herald Angels Sing and Carol of the Bells. See website to buy tickets and for additional details. 

Carolina Ballet’s The Nutcracker

WRAL-TV, PNC and Carolina Ballet have teamed up to bring the magic of the Nutcracker into your home in a live broadcast performance. This year, the Sugar Plum Fairy will be played by principal dancer Margaret Severin-Hansen, one of the founding members of the ballet troupe. “She is the last of our founding dancers that still takes the stage,” says Carolina Ballet communications director Sara E. Reichle. “We also have quite a few new young dancers who will be performing Nutcracker with us for the first time.” Dec. 25; 7 p.m.; free; televised on WRAL-TV Channel 5; See website for details.