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Boston's Best 2015 Holiday-Themed Stage Productions

The holidays are one of the best times of year to catch some theater in Boston. Not only is it an excuse to get in out of the cold, but most holiday theater is a heart-warming way to get in the mood for the season. From long-standing classics to new favorites and variety shows, Bostonians of every age have plenty of opportunity to catch a seasonal show. Just be sure to get seats ahead of time because it is a popular time to go catch a play.

Elf
(Photo Credit: Elf)

"Elf: The Musical"
Wang Theatre
270 Tremont St.
Boston, MA 02116
(617) 482-9393
www.citicenter.org

Date: Nov. 17 to Dec. 6, 2015

"Elf" is a delightful hit movie starring the hilarious Will Ferrell. It rapidly became a modern classic and one of the most beloved Christmas movies of a generation, making it a perfect fit for the stage. The musical takes the same tale of a human who was raised as an elf in the North Pole and turns it into a sensational stage production for all ages. Theater-goers will find it infectiously happy and every bit as lovable as the movie that spawned it.

Related: Best Holiday Markets In And Around Boston

Sister's Christmas Catechism
(Photo Credit: Sister's Christmas Catechism)

"Sister's Christmas Catechism"
Shubert Theatre
265 Tremont St.
Boston, MA 02116
(617) 482-9393
www.citicenter.org

Date: Nov. 28, 2015

"Sister's Christmas Catechism" is the comedy that so many people need around the holidays. It takes the traditional story of Christmas, throws in a funny nun and tries to solve the mystery of the Magi's missing gold. This show involves the audience, singing, holiday hilarity and a religious history lesson from the eponymous sister. Catholic school loses its frightening edge with this nativity tale delivered with teaching nun seriousness and Broadway flair.

Aimee Mann And Ted Leo Christmas Show
(Photo Credit: Aimee Mann And Ted Leo Christmas Show)

Aimee Mann & Ted Leo Christmas Show
The Wilbur Theatre
246 Tremont St.
Boston, MA 02116
(617) 248-9700
www.thewilbur.com

Date: Dec. 9, 2015

The Aimee Mann & Ted Leo Christmas Show is all about Christmas entertainment through a range of mediums. With the help of Jonathan Coulton, the musical duo behind "The Both" plans to offer up holiday cheer through music, comedy, sketches and other theatrical pursuits. Those looking for a night busy with entertainment will find it at The Wilbur with this enthusiastic bunch. Featuring both recognizable and fresh new faces, the blend of talent is always a pleasant surprise with this variety show.

Urban Nutcracker
(Photo Credit: Urban Nutcracker/Petr Metlicku)

"Urban Nutcracker"
John Hancock Hall
180 Berkeley St.
Boston, MA 02116
(617) 236-1199
www.backbayeventscenter.com

Date: Dec. 11 to Dec. 27, 2015

Urban Nutcracker is the classic tale reimagined for the culturally diverse city of Boston. Esteemed ballet dancer Tony Williams wanted to put on a show that allowed Bostonian performers of all backgrounds to come together on the stage. While this isn't the traditional Nutcracker performance, dance lovers will be pleased to see talented ballet dancers performing this new version of the tale. The Tony Williams Ballet Company launched in 2015 and will be a part of this season's run of the "Urban Nutcracker."

nutcracker 2013 Boston Ballet
From 2013 Boston Ballet 'The Nutcracker' (Photo: Boston Ballet)

"The Nutcracker"
Boston Opera House
539 Washington St.
Boston, MA 02111
(617) 259-3400
www.bostonoperahouse.com

Date: Nov. 27 to Dec. 31, 2015

Traditionalists will find no better place to see "The Nutcracker" than the Boston Opera House, where the Boston Ballet performs. This magic and beautiful holiday tale is performed by the very talented dancers of Boston's favorite ballet company every year, and is always a hit. The instantly recognizable music from Tchaikovsky takes center stage while Clara goes on an adventure to first save her Nutcracker prince and later join him in a land enamored with sweets and inhabited by the Sugar Plum Fairy.

Related: Boston's Best Holiday Volunteer Opportunities For The Family

Shelly Barclay is a professional freelance writer and amateur author. She writes on a variety of topics from food to mysteries. She loves to share the culture and rich history of her birthplace and home, Boston, with the rest of the world. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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