There are a lot of holiday happenings going on in the area theaters. From plays to… There are a lot of holiday happenings going on in the area theaters. From plays to symphonies, ballets to pageants, there’s sure to be something to please.

“The Nutcracker”

Dec. 6-28

Benedum Center, Downtown

Tickets: $10 from Pitt Arts (limited time); $11-$78

Student Rush: 1 hour before show, 50% off per I.D.

(412) 456-6666

To many of us, the classic ballet of the Nutcracker and Tchaikovsky’s musical compositions are well known. But this season, you have the opportunity to see this classic with a new twist. “The Nutcracker” is set in 19th century Pittsburgh! With a promise of enhanced scenery and special effects, this endearing ballet is sure to hit close to home.

“A Musical Christmas Carol”

Dec. 5-23

Byham Theater, Downtown

Tickets: $22-$38

(412) 456-6666

Join the Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera as they take you through the classic Charles Dickens tale of Scrooge and Tiny Tim. Set to the music of yuletide carols, the show will put a song in your heart as it once again reminds audiences that giving is the true meaning of Christmas.

Reduced Shakespeare Company

“The Bible: The Complete Word of God (abridged)”

“The Complete History of America (abridged)”

Dec. 18-28

O’Reilly Theater, Downtown

Tickets: $23-$42; $12 Student Tickets

(412) 316-1600

The Reduced Shakespeare Company tackles very dense subjects, like American history and the Bible, then drastically reduces their content, with hilarious results. These three-person performances are sure to keep you laughing for a full 90 minutes. Now a holiday tradition at the Pittsburgh Public Theater, these performances will give you a welcome relief from holiday stress.

Pittsburgh Symphony Holiday Pops

Dec. 17-21

Heinz Hall, Downtown

Tickets: $19-$75

(412) 392-4900

The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra will offer a delightful evening of holiday classics. Conductor Daniel Meyer will lead the orchestra as it sparks warm holiday memories and the magic of Christmas.

There are many other events going on this holiday season. Pitt Arts is offering discounted tickets through their Cheap Seats program for a number of happenings, including the following: Reduced Shakespeare Company, “A Musical Christmas Carol,” “Handel’s Messiah,” Heinz Chapel Choir Christmas Concerts and Playback Theatre: “Shared Memories of Holiday Celebrations.” Check it all out at www.pittarts.pitt.edu.

So when the holiday rush is getting a bit hectic or your finals feel like they’ll never end, take a moment to relax and celebrate the season at one of Pittsburgh’s cultural venues.