If all the Christmas displays in the stores don’t quite have you in the holiday mood yet, a full array of festive events taking place around town throughout December will surely have you and your family singing Jingle Bells before you know it.
The Nutcracker. A perennial holiday favorite wtih the graceful display of ballet dancers in this classic production. Ballet Memphis presents The Nutcracker. The Orpheum. Through December 11. Friday at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday at 2 & 7:30 p.m.; Sunday at 2 p.m. This annual production with the Memphis Symphony Orchestra features more than 100 dancers performing in glistening sets portraying the beauty of the classic characters. $10-$75. Group discounts available. 737-7322.
Jingle Bell Ball. Rock around the clock or at least into the early evening at this fun dance party for toddlers to tweens. The Peabody Hotel. Sunday, December 11. Cookie Party for toddlers to 2nd grade: 2-3 p.m. Jingle Bell Rock for 3rd & 4th grade: 3:30-5 p.m. Mistletoe Mash for 5th & 6th grade: 5:30-7 p.m. Join for the 28th annual children's holiday gala event where The Peabody Hotel is transformed into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, magicians, mimes, decorated trees, and visits from St. Nick. Tickets: $25. Benefits Memphis Children's Charities. For details, go to memphischaritable.org or call the Jingle Bell Hotline, 527-5683.
Broadway 101: Annie. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the Broadway show, Annie, offered for students in grades 3-12. Halloran Centre @ The Orpheum. Thursday, December 15, at 4 p. m. Grades 7-12. Friday, December 16, 4-6 p.m. Grades 3-6. Broadway 101 includes a two-hour workshop, a Q&A session, and a personalized keepsake Orpheum lanyard and nametag. All students learn music and choreography from a cast member from the national touring production of Annie, plus other special events for upper-grade levels. Price ranges, $30-$60. For more details, see our MP calendar and contact Brittany Church at 529-4241.
Peter Pan. This timeless tale of adventure entertains audiences with songs including "I Gotta Crow" and "I'm Flying.” Playhouse on the Square. Through December 31. Fridays at 7 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. $15-$45. Reservations: 726-4656.