Granted, the year has sometimes felt like a lump of coal in the proverbial stocking considering worries, fears, and a flurry of cancellations.
But it need not end that way. Even the Grinch can’t keep Christmas from coming.
Thanks to a range of local groups, organizations and ensembles, the holidays still can be bright — even while we save a soft spot of compassion for those battling the coronavirus and related challenges.
In fact, leaders of organizations such as the Columbus Indiana Philharmonic have specifically said they feel even more of an artistic calling to use their gifts especially now — with the addition of masks, reduced audience size, and social distancing, mind you — to usher hope and light into what has been for many a period of frustration and darkness.
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“Music is courageous, unifying, powerful, and calming, and the Columbus Indiana Philharmonic orchestra won’t let it be silenced in times of uncertainty,” are the words across the organization’s introductory web page.
With that in mind, here are a few suggestions — many in person, and some virtual — to make way for the season’s warmth.
Music
Columbus Symphony Orchestra’s Sounds of Joy virtual holiday recital, 3:30 p.m. Dec. 6 on the Columbus Symphony Orchestra of Indiana Facebook page. Music director Josh Aerie and Rachel Wilken, board president, will provide an introduction before string soloists Phil Palermo, concertmaster, and assistant concertmaster Laura Andrews perform a selection of wintery solo works. Free.
Columbus Indiana Philharmonic’s Candlelit Christmas, 3 and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 12 at First Christian Church, 531 Fifth St. in downtown Columbus. A chamber style orchestra will offer renditions of Christmas classics in a socially-distanced setting. Tickets: 812-376-2638 or thecip.org
Dance
Dancer’s Studio Inc.’s presentation of “The Nutcracker,” Dec. 19-20 at a location to be determined and filmed and shown as a virtual, ticketed event. Detrails will be forthcoming on the troupe’s Facebook page for Dancers Studio Inc. Columbus Indiana. The local nonprofit troupe, now under the leadership of Stacie Woempner, has made the show a local tradition among families. Information and tickets: 812-376-8080 or dancers-studio.org
Drama
Christmas Variety Show at Willow Leaves of Hope, 1 p.m. on Dec. 6 at the dinner theater and restaurant located 326 Jackson St. in Hope. A variety of acts, including singers, dancers, improvisationalists, comedians, and more. Information and reservations: 812-546-0640.
”Eb Scrooge: A Southern Fried Carol,” dinner theater scheduled Dec. 11, 13, 18 and 19 at Willow Leaves of Hope at 326 Jackson St. in Hope. The online synopsis: “Enter a world of grits and gravy, red velvet cake, and the occasional glass of sweet tea. This modern spin on a timeless classic captures the sights and sounds of contemporary life in today’s south while maintaining the spirit of Dickens’ beloved tale of greed and redemption.” Information and tickets: 812-546-0640.
Miscellaneous
A Not So Silent Night, 4 to 8 p.m. Dec. 10 in downtown Columbus. Local merchants offer later hours, specials, an elf hunt for the youngsters, and more. Information: 812-378-2622.
kidscommons “Polar Express” reading and more, 1 to 3 and 4 to 6 p.m. Dec. 6 at the museum located 309 Washington St. in downtown Columbus. Besides the reading of the story, there will be hot chocolate, holiday crafts, reindeer games, and what organizers have labeled “a jingly surprise.” Tickets: Members $16 per child and $8 per adult. General admission $20 per child and $10 adult. Information: 812-378-3046 or kidscommons.org
