Sunday, December 10 at same time. Inclement weather line 703-435-6866. Register at www.herndon-va.gov. DECEMBER 8 Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy
A Celtic Family Christmas
Concert Hall at George Mason University Center for the Arts, 8pm, $33-55 Two of Canada’s brightest stars, Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy, marry their exceptional talents in this festive evening of lightningfast fiddling and lively step-dancing. This husband-and-wife duo captivates the audience with their unmistakable chemistry as they perform foottapping rave-ups, heartfelt ballads, and remarkable step dancing. In their newest program, A Celtic Family Christmas, they are joined onstage by talented musicians and their whole family to recreate all of the warmth and joys of a typical Christmas in their home on Cape Breton Island. “Dual fiddle wizardry…amazing synergy,” raves the Intelligencer Journal. Celebrate the holidays as they share their traditions in song, dance, and stories by the fire. DECEMBER 8
American Festival Pops Orchestra Holiday Pops: Songs of the Season
George Mason University Center for the Arts Concert Hall, 8pm, $33-55 Deck the halls with boughs of holly! It’s time to celebrate with the American Festival Pops Orchestra at their annual holiday concert, a cherished tradition at the Center. This uplifting evening includes favorite classics like Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride” and “A Christmas Festival,” the ever-popular carol sing-a-long, and fun musical surprises. Special guest artists join conductor Anthony Maiello as he leads Northern Virginia’s very own pops orchestra in a treasured holiday celebration. It is a surefire way to VIVATYSONS.COM
put everyone in your family—even a scrooge—into the holiday spirit. DECEMBER 9-17
The Nutcracker Tea
The Ritz-Carlton Tysons Corner, 1700 Tysons Blvd, McLean, VA 22102, 10am-1pm Delight in a contemporary twist on the beloved holiday classic while you enjoy afternoon tea with festive winter petite sandwiches and pastries. All children will go home with a nutcracker doll and pictures to remember their day. DECEMBER 9
Mason Symphony Orchestra & Jazz Holiday Concert
DECEMBER 16
The Nutcrakcer, The Fairfax Ballet
GMU Center for the Arts Concert Hall, 4pm Experience this timeless holiday classic with the FSO and the Fairfax Ballet—a holiday tradition your family will always cherish. Enjoy a winter wonderland of dancing snowflakes, sugar plum fairies and epic battles between heroic toy soldiers and mischievous mice. It’s the perfect holiday treat for the entire family! DECEMBER 23
George Mason University Center for the Arts Concert Hall, 7pm, $5-20 Celebrate the holidays with the Mason School of Music in a concert sure to make the season bright. The Mason Symphony Orchestra is comprised of outstanding string, wind, and percussion players from throughout the School of Music.
The Washington Chorus Family Christmas
George Mason University Center for the Arts deLaski Performing Arts Building A101, 2pm, $33-66 Celebrate Christmas with The Washington Chorus! Bring the whole family and enjoy your favorite holiday tunes, a fun sing-along, and a visit from Santa! v
DECEMBER 21
Moscow Ballet's Great Russian Nutcracker
George Mason University Center for the Arts Concert Hall, 4pm and 8pm, $28-175 Celebrate this Christmas with the experience taking North America by storm! Marking the 25th Anniversary Tour, Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker features over-the-top production and world class Russian artists. Larger than life puppets, nesting dolls and gloriously hand-crafted costumes bring the Christmas spirit to life. Gather the family and see why the press is raving “Knock Out!” – New York Times “Christmas Cheer!” – LA Times. Get the best seats today and memories for a lifetime at Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker!. Groups get the best seats at the best prices! Call Bobbie at 1-800-320-1733 to reserve your seats today.
NOVEMBER // DECEMBER 2018 v TYSONS
37