December
Snow queens, fairy godmothers, and lovable monsters By Polly Sparling
En pointe
Local productions of The Nutcracker are as numerous as candy canes at this time of year. But the Orange County Ballet Theatre’s full-length performances of Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet spring from impressive professional roots. Darlene Wilson, an accomplished Broadway dancer whose credits range from Cats to Spamalot, is the new artistic director of the troupe. Besides her Great White Way credentials, the New Windsor native is a choreographer and has taught dance at NYU. Catch the company’s production of The Nutcracker at
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Prime panto
The Valley’s newest professional theater group gets in on the holiday merriment this month.
. 845-235-9885 or www.halfmoontheatre.org
He did sleep here (really)
Washington’s Headquarters is among the many historic sites offering special events in December. Visit the Hasbrouck House — Washington’s home during 1782-3 — for a candlelight tour of the fragrantly decorated interior, with live musicians, hot cider, and sweets (Dec. 10, 3-9 p.m.). The site is open daily for tours given by costumed interpreters during Winter Welcome Week (Dec. 26-31, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.). On the 29th, you can join the “night watchman” on his rounds through the house, and learn the stories behind some of the museum’s most interesting artifacts (6-8 p.m.). Call for fees.
. 845-562-1195.
Scary stuff
If keeping the kiddies amused is a to-do list priority, head to the city of
Reality check
With all the rush and bustle of the holidays, it’s all too easy to forget the real reasons why we celebrate Christmas. Find the true spirit of the season at A Service of Lessons and Carols at the Vassar College Chapel. The school’s College Choir, Women’s Chorus, and Madrigal Singers — along with the Cappella Festival Chamber Choir and Children’s Chorus — perform traditional carols and hymns from various countries and time periods. The combination of beautiful music, meaningful readings, and candlelit chapel setting should help you regain your holiday perspective. Dec. 3 at 7 p.m.
. 845-437-7294 or music.vassar.edu/concerts.html