Enchanting Holiday Performances Brings Seasonal Cheer to Bellevue
November 25, 2021 - by Sandy Vo
Enchanting Holiday Performances Brings Seasonal Cheer to Bellevue
Meydenbauer Center Theatre has been a home for holiday performances in Downtown Bellevue for years. The seasonal-themed productions continue this winter with special showings from Issaquah Dance Theatre’s The Nutcracker, Bellevue Youth Symphony Orchestra, Karin Kirkland School of Dance presents The Snow Queen and International Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker. Evan Mues, the theatre administrator at Meydenbauer, said these performances are beloved by the community, showing strong attendance year after year.
“The holiday performances here are unique because of the scale and scope of each production,” he said. “We have several shows lined up this year with lots of opportunities to see each one before the season is over.”
Each show puts a huge emphasis on the importance of art and culture for young kids today. It allows the younger generation to be inspired by their peers they get to see on stage. Mues states for many kids coming to watch, it’s their first time in a theatre.
“The holiday season is the perfect time to introduce children to the wonders of live performances. It becomes a family tradition where the kids who see these shows will eventually bring their kids to Meydenbauer years from now,” he said.
Holiday performances will run from Nov. 21 – Dec. 23. As with many other live events, the pandemic has caused some new changes to happen. This year, Meydenbauer will require proof of vaccination, or a negative COVID- 19 test done within 72 hours for entry to all holiday performances.
“Even though the way we gather together looks different, the spirit, cheer and excitement stay the same,” he said.
Featured Performances:
Bellevue Youth Symphony Orchestra
Performance date has passed
Bellevue Youth Symphony orchestra provides a positive and stimulating environment for Eastside youth. Now with six large orchestras and three smaller instrumental ensembles, they have been serving students ages 6 to 21 since 1964.
Issaquah Dance Theatre Presents The Nutcracker
Nov. 26 - Nov. 28 | Showtime Varies
Issaquah Dance Theatre strives to inspire and support students artistically, personally and professionally in a caring and nurturing environment. During the holiday season, they put on a well-produced performance of The Nutcracker, featuring mesmerizing colorful costume, pageantry, festive scenary and snow falling from the sky. Buy your tickets and view more information about the production on their website.
Karin Kirkland School of Dance Presents The Snow Queen
Dec. 5 | 4:00 p.m.
Karin Kirkland School of Dance is a family-owned and operated dance studio with small groups allowing individual approaches to every student. They specialize in classical ballet, character, national and modern dances. The Snow Queen production is a fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen about the power of friendship. Ticket and show information can be found online.
International Ballet Theatre Presents The Nutcracker
Dec. 10 – Dec. 23 | Showtime varies
International Ballet Theatre is committed to the preservation of classical ballet repertoire by presenting authentic productions that reflect traditional as well as original choreography. The holiday spectacle, The Nutcracker returns with vibrant costumes and brilliant sets staged with traditional Russian choreography, exotic Arabian dancers and a fierce battle scene with soldiers and mice. Purchase your tickets on their website.
Craving more festive experiences in Downtown Bellevue? Check out Bellevue's Season of Cheer, a collection of the region’s most popular holiday celebrations and events!
Images courtesy of: Rex Trantor Photography, Karin Kirkland School of Dance, Issaquah Dance Theatre, Bellevue Youth Symphony Orchestra
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Meydenbauer Center Theatre
11100 NE 6th St
Bellevue, WA 98004
