Scrooges, dances and the singalong
Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol Tony winner Jefferson Mays plays all the roles in this new adaptation of the holiday tale. An L.A. Times Critics’ Choice. Geffen Playhouse, 10886 Le Conte Ave., Westwood. Now through Dec. 9. $30-$120. (310) 208-5454. www.geffenplayhouse.com
George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker Miami City Ballet returns with this production based on Balanchine’s classic choreography. Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave., L.A. Nov. 29-Dec. 2. $35 and up. (213) 972-0711. www.musiccenter.org
A Christmas Carol South Coast Rep’s annual presentation of the Dickens classic; children under 6 not admitted. South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. Nov. 30-Dec. 24. $24 and up. (714) 708-5555. www.scfta.org
A Christmas Carol Ebenezer Scrooge has a change of heart in Dickens’ holiday fable. An L.A. Times Critics’ Choice. A Noise Within, 3352 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. Dec. 1-23. $25 and up; student rush, $20. (626) 3563100. www.anoisewithin.org
The Nutcracker Los Angeles Ballet’s annual locally touring production. Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 18000 Park Plaza Drive, Cerritos. Nov. 24-25. Also at Alex Theatre, 216 N. Brand Blvd., Glendale. Dec. 1-2; the Dolby Theatre (with live orchestra), 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood. Dec. 8-9; Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center, 1935 E. Manhattan Beach Blvd., Redondo Beach. Dec. 15-16; and Royce Hall, UCLA, 340 Royce Drive, Westwood. Dec. 22-24. $31-$99; discounts available. (310) 9987782. www.losangelesballet.org
38th Annual Messiah Singalong Audience participation is encouraged as the Los Angeles Master Chorale and guest vocalists perform the beloved oratorio. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., L.A. Dec. 11. $29 and up; children under 6 not admitted. (213) 972-7282. www.lamasterchorale.org
The Nutcracker American Ballet Theatre returns to perform the holiday favorite. Segerstrom Hall, Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. Dec. 14-23. $29 and up. (714) 556-2787. www.scfta.org