‘A Very Merry Pops’
The Oklahoma City Philharmonic will light up the Civic Center Music Hall on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 5‑6, 2025, for two unforgettable performanc‑ es of “A Very Merry Pops with Cody Fry.” As part of the Chickasaw Nation Pops Series, this concert features the Oklahoma City Philharmonic and Cody Fry with guest vocalists, accompanists, and an added touch of audience participation. It’s full of special holiday moments. You can be a part of the heartwarming holiday magic with tickets starting at just $24.
Cody Fry is a GRAMMY®‑nominated vocalist, composer, and multi‑instrumentalist known for his cinematic pop orchestra‑ tions and viral symphonic covers who delighted Oklahoma City Philharmonic audiences during our 24‑25 season. Concertgoers will enjoy Cody’s biggest hits and fresh, emotionally rich holiday experience as Fry returns to perform with the OKC Philharmonic for a program of reimagined holiday classics and original favorites.
“Christmas is such a personal and joyful time,” said OKCPHIL Music Director Alexander Mickelthwate. “‘A Very Merry Pops’ will bring a traditional holiday spirit to life with Cody’s amazing voice and orchestral storytelling. It will be heartfelt, festive, and unforgettable.” For more, see Page 14.
OKCPHIL Music Director Alexander Mickelthwate conducts the orchestra.
- Photo by Jesse Edgar Photography
CODY FRY
‘A
Very Merry Pops: A Fun‑Filled Family Concert’
The OKCPHIL presents a matinee on Saturday, Dec. 6, complete with festive music, visual storytelling and magical moments with cookies with Santa, an elf and surprises for the delight of audiences young and old.
EVENT DETAILS:
• What: “A Very Merry Pops: A Fun-Filled Family Concert.”
• When: Saturday, Dec. 6, 2 p.m.
• Where: Civic Center Music Hall, Oklahoma City.
• Tickets: Starting at $24.
• Box Office: okcphil.org/concerts/ fun-filled-family-concert or call (405) 842-5387.
TThe Oklahoma City Philharmonic invites families and music lovers of all ages to experience the joy of the season with “A Very Merry Pops: A Fun‐Filled Family Concert,” a heartwarming holiday celebration on Saturday, Dec. 6, at 2 p.m. at the Civic Center Music Hall. Presented in part of the Chickasaw Nation Pops Series, this special matinee performance is designed with families in mind — complete with fes‐tive music, visual storytelling and magical moments with cookies with Santa, an elf and surprises for the delight of audiences young and old.
This year’s matinee is an immersive experience featuring the OKC Philharmonic alongside special guests and video projection elements that add a whimsical layer of visual artistry. Expect a blend of holiday favorites and symphonic surprises that spark the imagination and ignite the holiday spirit.
“Christmas is such a personal and joyful time,” said Alexander Mickelthwate, Music Director of the OKCPHIL. “‘A Very Merry Pops’ will bring the warmth of the season to life with live music, family‐friendly fun, and a community full of shared holiday joy.”
Please note: Cody Fry will not appear in the 2 p.m. matinee performance.
This matinee is the perfect way to kick off a new holiday tradition, offering the excitement and energy of a live orchestra with an approachable, kid‐friendly format. Whether it’s a child’s first con‐cert or a cherished family outing, this performance promises memories that will last well beyond the season.
- Photo by Jesse Edgar Photography
Beck Reed returns to ‘A Christmas Carol’
Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma announces the return of Jonathan Beck Reed in the role of Ebenezer Scrooge in “A Christmas Carol,” live on stage at the Plaza Theatre.
Reed last delighted Oklahoma audiences in Lyric’s 2022 production of “A Christmas Carol” held at the historic Harn Homestead. Follow Ebeneezer Scrooge on his transformative journey in one of Oklahoma City’s most beloved holiday traditions perfect for the whole family!
“Lyric’s A Christmas Carol” is directed by Producing Artistic Director Michael Baron and choreographed by Executive Producer Ashley Wells. Tickets are now on sale for performances Nov. 28 through Dec. 28. Tickets can be purchased at LyricTheatreOKC.org and by phone at (405) 524‐9312, Monday through Friday from 12 noon to 5 p.m.
Join Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of redemption, brought to life by a talented cast led by Jonathan Beck Reed. With additional rotating young performers, includ‐ing Lyric’s Thelma Gaylord Academy students, and a dynamic ensemble, every performance offers a unique experience.
“Our immersive, classic Victorian production is a cele‐bration of holiday joy, featuring stunning sets and cos‐tumes that elevate the magic of Dickens’ timeless tale,” said Lyric’s Producing Artistic Director Michael Baron. “This is the Christmas Carol you love with flying ghosts, beautiful costumes, festive music, and delightful new surprises throughout the entire theatre.”
For more, see Page 14
PERFORMANCES:
• Nov. 28 – Dec. 28 at Lyric’s Plaza Stage, 1727 NW 16th St.
• Tuesdays – Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.
• Sundays at 7 p.m.
• Matinee Performances – Saturdays and Sundays; 11/28, 12/23, 12/24 and 12/26 at 2 p.m.
• ASL Interpreted Performance – Saturday, Dec.13 at 2 p.m.
• Lyric’s complete cast list can be found at LyricTheatreOKC.org.
- Photos by K. Talley Photography
Artistic director promises ‘surprises’ for ‘Nutcracker’
OOklahoma City Ballet presents the holiday classic, “The Nutcracker,” Dec. 12‐23 at the Civic Center Music Hall. Each of the 14 performances come to life with the powerful sounds of live music performed by the Oklahoma City Philharmonic and Canterbury Voices.
Last December, Oklahoma City Ballet unveiled a dazzling new production of “The Nutcracker,” featuring 195 exquisite costumes, breathtaking sets, and whimsical props that brought the beloved story of Clara, Fritz, and Marie to life like never before. The reimagined production broke box office records and enchant‐ed more than 20,000 audience mem‐bers, earning glowing reviews from both critics and fans.
“Whether or not you joined us for last year’s premiere, this year’s Nutcracker is not to be missed,” said Artistic Director Ryan Jolicoeur‐Nye. “The sets, cos‐tumes, and choreography remain as magical as ever — but I always add a few surprises each season to keep the produc‐tion fresh and exciting.”
For more, see Page 13
‘Holiday Spectacular’ OCU dance show honors legacy of Ann Lacy School of Dance
Oklahoma City University premieres “Holiday Spectacular,” the fall performance of the Star Dance Company from the Ann Lacy School of American Dance & Entertainment.
“Holiday Spectacular” will be performed at 8 p.m. on Dec. 11, 12, and 13, with matinee showings at 2 p.m. on Dec. 13 and 14. All performances take place at the Kirkpatrick Theater, in OCU’s Kirkpatrick Fine Arts Building.
For tickets, either call the OCU Performing Arts Ticket Office at (405) 208‐5227, purchase online at okcu.edu/ main/tickets, or purchase in‐person in the Edith Kinney Gaylord Center (Ann Lacy School of American Dance & Entertainment) at the intersection of N. Blackwelder Ave. and NW 23. The ticket office is also open in the Kirkpatrick Fine Arts Center starting two hours prior to each performance.
“Holiday Spectacular” honors the legacy of the Ann Lacy School of Dance & Entertainment while broadening its reper‐toire to embrace dance for the world of entertainment! Over 120 dynamic performers spread yuletide magic with high‐energy holi‐day favorites, vivid costumes and a graceful reminder of the reason for the Christmas season.
“Holiday Spectacular” is directed by Tiffany van der Merwe and produced by Dean
OCU’s Ann Lacy School of American Dance and Entertainment was founded by retired Dance Chair Jo Rowan and Dean John Bedford to create the first dance pro‐gram in America to offer degrees specializing in entertainment dance forms of tap, jazz and musical theatre dance.
The Ann Lacy School continues to be named in the top 10 colle‐giate dance programs, and alumni can be found performing, managing, choreo‐graphing, and teaching all over the world.
Canterbury and ‘Messiah’ — a gift to the OKC community
Canterbury Voices — cele‐brating 57 years in Oklahoma City — returns Sunday, Dec. 7 at 7 p.m. with an OKC holiday tradition.
“Handel’s Messiah” comes to life with the award‐winning Canterbury Voices, accom‐panied by the Oklahoma City Philharmonic.
You’ll experi‐ence high‐wire arias, dazzling instrumental fireworks, and awe‐inspiring choruses — making this the must‐see holiday event in Oklahoma City. Joined by four virtuosic soloists, the performance will be presented in its traditional Baroque orchestration.
Canterbury Voices Artistic Director
Dr. Julie Yu said, “‘Messiah’ endures because it captures something timeless — the grandeur of its choruses, the bril‐liance of its orchestration and the deep emotional weight that moves audiences generation after generation. Few works in the choral repertoire connect so powerfully to both the human spirit and the divine.”
She continued, “This masterpiece was composed in just three weeks in 1741 by George Frideric Handel — born in Germany, trained in Italy, and celebrated in England. Handel was truly an international figure, and I’m excited to continue exploring diverse cultural influences through his work this sea‐son.”
Executive Director Pam Mowry stat‐ed, “‘Messiah’ ushers in the holidays like no other — audiences love standing to sing the ‘Hallelujah Chorus’ at the con‐cert’s finale!”
“As Canterbury celebrates our 57th season, we are thrilled to perform this exquisite masterwork once again for our OKC community. It’s a tradition that continues to inspire both our singers and audiences year after year.”
Joining the performance are four vir‐tuosic soloists — Soprano Nicole Van Every, Mezzo‐Soprano Eric Roth Thomas, Tenor Justin Kroll, and Bass David Grogan.
Dr. Yu added, “Our soloists bring extraordinary command of the human voice — each one a true master of expression and artistry. Their ability to interpret Handel’s music with both pre‐cision and emotional depth will elevate this performance to something truly transcendent.”
Tickets are now on sale, with group discounts available. Call the Box Office at (405) 232‐ SING or visit Canterbury‐OKC.com for more information.
SAFARI LIGHTS debuts new experiences
Since it debuted in 2021, OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS has quickly become a beloved holiday tradition for thousands of Oklahoma families. This year, in addi‑ tion to new decorative lanterns and interactive dis‑ plays, the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden is introducing a bevy of options and experiences to make the holidays merrier and brighter than ever.
OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS, presented by OG&E, begins Saturday, Nov. 15 and runs nightly through Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, from 5:30‑11 p.m. with the last check in at 10 p.m. Guests can drive through a won‑ derland of wildlife‑ and holiday‑themed lanterns before parking in front of the Zoo and entering for an immersive walking experience with interactive light displays, photo stations, and seasonal treats.
“Every year, we look at ways to go bigger and brighter than the year before,” said OKC Zoo events manager Jenna Dodson. “We’ve added plenty of new options to make this event even more memorable for guests, many of whom have been returning annually since we began.”
For more, see Page 14
‘Rat Pack’: A nostalgic holiday concert
SStep back into the golden age of swing, swagger, and Christmas cheer as Diamond Horseshoe Productions pres‐ents “Christmas with the Rat Pack” — a nostalgic holiday concert celebrating the iconic sounds of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr.
The show takes place Friday, Dec. 5 at 7:30 p.m. at the Oklahoma City Community College Visual and Performing Arts Center Theater. Tickets are available now at occc.tick‐etsage.net.
Experience the cool charm of Las Vegas in its heyday as three of the world’s premier tribute artists — Brian Duprey (Frank Sinatra), Joe Scalissi (Dean Martin), and Kenny Jones (Sammy Davis Jr.) — take the stage, backed by a sizzling 6‐piece live band. Together, they recreate the timeless chem‐istry, comedy, and charisma that made The Rat Pack a leg‐end.
Audiences will be transported to a smoky 1960s Copa Room Christmas, filled with signature hits like “Fly Me to the Moon,” “That’s Amore,” “Mr. Bojangles” and “New York, New York,” alongside festive favorites including “Let It Snow,” “Jingle Bells,” and “White Christmas.”
It’s the merriest night of the year — a chance to relive the glamour, laughter, and music of Sinatra, Dean and Sammy in their prime, plus a special guest appearance by Marilyn Monroe. This show captures the heart and humor of The Rat Pack while delivering all the joy of the holiday season.
EVENT DETAILS
Perfect for couples, families and lovers of the Great American Songbook, Christmas with “The Rat Pack” is a one‐night‐only celebration of time‐less music, witty banter and pure Christmas nostalgia.
What: “Christmas with The Rat Pack”
When: Friday, Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m.
Tickets: occc.ticketsage.net
Where: Oklahoma City Community College Visual and Performing Arts Center Theater
Presented by: Diamond Horseshoe Productions
Holiday fun Downtown in December
Free Streetcar Rides
Weekends, through Jan. 4, 2026
Enjoy complimentary fares on the OKC Streetcar on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays as you take in all the destinations, events and attractions that Downtown in December has to offer. Warm up, shop local and love the loops for free this holiday sea‐son!
Devon
Ice Rink
Through January
The Devon Ice Rink returns for its 13th season in the Myriad Botanical Gardens in 2025! Get ready for another great winter of outdoor ice skating at Downtown in December’s premier attraction. Skate across 5,500‐square‐feet of real ice and indulge in seasonal food and bever‐age offerings. Experience the magical, park‐like atmosphere sur‐rounded by the glittering lights of the Devon Ice Rink.
Downtown Light Displays
Through January
Downtown OKC is full of beautiful light displays to enjoy throughout the holiday sea‐son! Explore each district and expe‐rience the different light installa‐tions and decorations that they have to offer with your family and friends.
Bring your pups to West Park Place and North Harvey Avenue for free pho‐tos of Santa with your furry friends. Santa is to be available for photos 1‐3 p.m. Professional photos are to be taken DIY photos available. Professional photos are emailed to attendees (with email sign up) and posted on Facebook following the event.
Saints Santa Run
Dec. 6, 8 a.m.
Grab your costumes and running shoes, the Saints Santa Run is coming to Midtown on Saturday, Dec. 7. Our family‐friendly winter run is bringing all ages, and even pets, to downtown Oklahoma City for a festive 5K and costume con‐test. It is a great way to stay active and spread cheer during the holiday season!
Holiday Pop‑Up Shops
Nov. 28 – Dec. 21
Support local this holiday season by visiting the Holiday Pop‐Ups, returning to Midtown in downtown Oklahoma City.
With shops rotating weekly, you are sure to find a gift for everyone on your list. Discover dozens of local shops each weekend, enjoy treats or buy your Christmas tree from the Bishop John Carroll tree lot. The event also features live music, surprise visits from Santa and Curbside Chronicle wrapping paper sales.
The OKC Pop‐Up Shops are located on the corner of NW 10th and Hudson. Parking is available throughout Midtown or hop off the streetcar stop at 10th and Hudson. They are family and dog‐friendly.
Lights On Broadway Annual Event
Nov. 29, Dec. 6 & 17
Light displays are available for viewing from dawn to dusk and are free and open to everyone. The fol‐lowing districts are taking part: Automobile Alley, Bricktown, City Center, Deep Deuce and Midtown.
Santa Paws Photo Op
Nov. 23, 1‐3 p.m.
Cruise down historic Automobile Alley for the district’s holiday open house and experience its stunning light display during the Seventh Annual Lights On Broadway event! Attendees can enjoy local shopping, seasonal activities and decor, special promotions, sidewalk entertain‐ment, and much more.
Participate in the 5K Run/Walk or 1‐Mile Fun Run and receive a com‐memorative Saints Santa Run t‐shirt and finisher medal. All are invited to enjoy free activities like face paint‐ing and balloon art, complimentary snacks and drinks, holiday music and more at the start/finish line cel‐ebration on the SSM Health – St. Anthony Hospital campus.
OKC Chanukah Festival Dec. 14, 4:30‐6:30 p.m.
The Jewish cultural event of the year in OKC takes place at Scissortail Park at the Love’s Stage in downtown Oklahoma City. The program includes the lighting of the 15‐feet Menorah, live music and dancing, a fire and light show, tradi‐tional foods, treats for children, car‐nival entertainment, holiday bless‐ings, Dreidel Man, and more. This event is free and open to everyone.
‘NUTCRACKER’
From Page 7
This year’s “Nutcracker” fea‐tures Oklahoma City Ballet’s 27 profes‐sional dancers, 39 OKCB II members, and more than 80 students from the Oklahoma City Ballet Yvonne Chouteau School. The Oklahoma City Philharmonic once again performs Tchaikovsky’s beloved score live, with Canterbury Youth Voices lending their tal‐ents to the spellbinding “Snow Scene.”
“This stunning new production is capturing hearts here at home — and turning heads across the country,” said Dana McCrory, John Kirkpatrick executive director.
Tickets are on sale now. Single tickets range from $39 to $135. Tickets may be purchased by calling Oklahoma City Ballet 405‐848‐TOES (8637), online at okcballet.org, or by calling the Civic Center Box office at (405) 297‐2264. All performances take place at the Civic Center Music Hall, 201 N. Walker, Oklahoma City. The Oklahoma City Ballet Box Office is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is located at 6800 N. Classen Blvd.
A more inclusive ‘Nutcracker’: Sensory‑Friendly Performance
In partnership with AutismOklahoma, Oklahoma City Ballet hosts a sensory‐friendly performance of “The Nutcracker” on Wednesday, Dec. 17, at 7 p.m. Designed for children and adults with sensory sensitivities — or anyone who prefers a relaxed environment — this spe‐cial performance includes:
• Lower music volume and adjusted lighting.
• No live orchestra, pyrotechnics, or strobe effects.
• Relaxed theater rules, allowing guests to talk, move, and use devices as needed
Tickets for this performance are deeply discounted and available now at okcballet.org or by calling (405) 848‐TOES.
Sip, snack, and celebrate: ‘The Nutcracker’ Tea
Families are invited to step into a winter wonderland at The Nutcracker Tea, a festive fundraiser supporting Oklahoma City Ballet’s community engagement programs. Enjoy sweet treats, holiday crafts, photos with beloved Nutcracker characters, a special performance and even a visit from Santa himself!
• Meinders Hall of Mirrors, Civic Center Music Hall
• Saturday, Dec. 20 | 4‐6 p.m.
• Tickets: $50 (on sale Nov. 19)
Sponsorships available now at okcballet.org or by calling (405) 208‐8836
Shop the magic
Arrive early! One hour before each performance, the north lobby opens to reveal “The Nutcracker” Boutique, featur‐ing more than 70 unique nutcrackers, holiday treasures, and exclusive Oklahoma City Ballet merchandise. Guests can also capture the memory with professional photos available before and after every show.
Step into the magic, the music, and the wonder — Oklahoma City Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” is the holiday tradition that brings joy to every heart.
Performances of The Nutcracker take place on Fri, Dec. 12 at 7 p.m.; Sat, Dec. 13 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Sun, Dec. 14 at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.; Thurs, Dec. 18 at 7 p.m.: Fri, Dec. 19 at 7 p.m.; Sat, Dec. 20 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Sun, Dec. 21 at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.; and Mon, Dec. 22 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Tues, Dec 23 at 2, with the sensory‐friendly version on Wednesday, Dec. 17 at 7 p.m. The Dec. 23 performance does not include live music from OKCPHIL.
OKC Ballet performs “The Nutcracker,” Dec. 12-23 at the Civic Center Music Hall.
POPS
From Page 3
Cody Fry has gar‐nered mil‐lions of streams with his sig‐nature blend of pop and orchestral music, including his breakout hit “I Hear a Symphony.” His musical style — often described as a cross between Coldplay and John Williams — has struck a chord with listeners across genera‐tions. With symphony per‐formances selling out across the country and global acclaim for his orchestral arrange‐ments, Fry’s performance will be a seasonal highlight for Oklahoma audiences.
“A Very Merry Pops” is to be performed:
LYRIC
From Page 6
Baron said, “We are espe‐cially thrilled to welcome back to the role of Ebenezer Scrooge, one of Lyric's most beloved actors and my dear friend, Jonathan Beck Reed.
“From our first production in 2011 to our outdoor version in 2020, Jonathan always brings his heart and soul when playing Scrooge. It's an honor to have him back and I promise you it is a performance not to be missed. Our production has become an essential part of Oklahoma’s holiday season, enjoyed by the whole family and we are grateful for our gen‐erous donor, Devon Energy, for supporting this heartfelt story of hope and redemption."
In the spirit of giving, audi‐ences are encouraged to con‐tribute to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma after each performance. Over the past 13 years, Lyric patrons have donated more than $285,000, providing more than 870,000 meals to those in need in the community.
• Friday, Dec. 5 at 7:30 p.m.
• Saturday, Dec. 6 at 7:30 p.m.
All performances take place at the Civic Center Music Hall, downtown Oklahoma City.
Whether it’s your first time
Santa Claus is coming to the OKCPHIL’s “A Very Merry Pops.”
music can bring. Tickets are on sale now at okcphil.org/events‐tickets/ pops/ or by calling (405) 842‐5387.
or a treasured tradition, this year’s “A Very Merry Pops” offers the perfect kickoff to the holiday season — with soaring vocals, festive sym‐phonic arrangements, and the kind of warmth that only live
ZOO
From Page 10
New this year with OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS: Mistletoe Mingle. Get into the holiday spirits with some spirits at Mistletoe Mingle, the OKC Zoo’s 21‐and‐older holiday event. Thursday, Nov. 20 is to be an adults‐only night at OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS with festive cocktails, spiked cocoa, holiday treats, holiday karaoke, and visits from hol‐iday characters. Tickets are $50 for drive‐thru admission and two walk‐thru wrist‐bands (or $35 for ZOOfriends members). Walk‐thru only tickets are $18 each ($14 for ZOOfriends members). Food and bever‐age packages can be added for an addition‐al cost.
Igloo rentals: Take a breather from the holiday hustle and bustle by reserving a private igloo. Whether it’s a gathering spot, a place to grab a meal, or just a respite from the crowds, a private igloo takes a special night to the next level. Rentals start at $250 and can accommodate up to 8. ZOOfriends save $20 when booking this experience.
Safari sleigh rides: Guests can enjoy a chauffeured VIP adventure with a ride on a private “sleigh” as they take a guided tour of SAFARI LIGHTS on a festively decorated golf cart, along with warm blankets and hot cocoa. The tour continues on foot through the walk‐thru portion, as well! ZOOfriends
About OKC Philharmonic: OKC Philharmonic was founded in 1988 and celebrates over 30 years of beautiful music in Oklahoma City. Under the direction of Alexander Mickelthwate, the orchestra performs Classics, Orchestral Pops, and Discovery Family concerts, as well as a variety of community engagements. Our mission exists to provide inspi‑ ration and joy for the commu‑ nity through orchestral music. For more information contact us at okcphil.org, 424 Colcord Drive, Suite B, Oklahoma City, OK 73102.
receive $30 off when booking this experi‐ence.
Pictures with Santa: Get a North Pole‐worthy portrait with Santa on the following dates: Nov. 15‐16, 22‐30, Dec. 4‐7, 11‐14, and 18‐24. Picture prices range from $35 to $75 with add‐ons for additional prints, frames, and snow globes. There’s no pur‐chase necessary to meet Santa.
The OKC Zoo hosts a Sensory‐Friendly Night for SAFARI LIGHTS on Thursday, Dec. 4, from 6 to 9 p.m. Attendees can anticipate a less‐stimulating sensory environment with lower crowd sizes, limited flashing lights, and reduced sounds while experi‐encing the magic of SAFARI LIGHTS.
OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS is open on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. The estimated time to complete the driving tour is 20 minutes.
Online reservations are required for OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS and can be made at okczoo.org/safari‐lights. Drive‐up purchas‐es will not be accepted. Tickets are limited to ensure optimal guest experience. Event pricing varies based on visit date, you pick the date that works best with your sched‐ule and budget. ZOOfriends members receive a $10 discount on drive‐thru admissions and a $2 discount on additional walk‐thru admissions. To make reserva‐tions or for additional details, visit okc‐zoo.org/safarilights.
- Photo by Jesse Edgar Photography
