MANSFIELD, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—The Renaissance Theatre invites the community to celebrate the season with “Christmas at the Ren,” presented by Brightspeed Fiber Internet. This year’s series of holiday events offers a variety of festive experiences to bring the community together in the spirit of Christmas.

Richland Academy of the Arts: The Nutcracker Ballet

Kick off the holiday season with the magic of “The Nutcracker Ballet,” performed by the talented young dancers of Richland Academy of the Arts. Performances are scheduled for December 7, 2024, at 7:30 PM and December 8, 2024, at 2:30 PM. Follow Clara on her journey through the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets, brought to life with Tchaikovsky’s timeless score and vibrant choreography.

Families attending the December 8 performance will enjoy special activities, including a hot cocoa bar, warm gingerbread cookies, visits with reindeer, and photos with Santa, making this a magical experience for all ages.

Mansfield Symphony Orchestra: Holiday Pops

As part of the OhioHealth Symphony Series, the Mansfield Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, under the direction of Octavio Más-Arocas, present “Holiday Pops” on December 14, 2024, at 7:30 PM. This beloved holiday tradition features seasonal classics like “The Nutcracker Suite,” “The Polar Express,” and “Sleigh Ride,” as well as a rousing audience sing-along of favorite carols. Santa Claus will make a special appearance during the evening, spreading Christmas cheer to all.

Mansfield Symphony Youth Orchestra: Holiday Prelude

Celebrate the next generation of talent at the “Holiday Prelude” concert on December 15, 2024, at 3:30 PM, part of the Mechanics Bank Education Series. Under the direction of Stephen Domka, the Mansfield Symphony Youth Orchestra will perform holiday favorites and a tribute to Ukraine with “Kyiv, 2022” by Brian Balmages, alongside timeless classics like “A Charlie Brown Christmas.”

We Wish You a Jazzy Christmas, Featuring the Artistic Jazz Orchestra

The Artistic Jazz Orchestra (AJO), led by Paul Martin, delivers swingin’ holiday favorites with “We Wish You a Jazzy Christmas” on December 21, 2024, at 7:30 PM. Vocalists Kelly Knowlton and Joel Claypool join the ensemble for jazzy renditions of classics like “The Christmas Song,” “Silver Bells,” and “Let It Snow.” Dancers from Richland Academy add a touch of nostalgia to this vibrant holiday celebration.

Celebrate the Holidays at the Renaissance Theatre

Tickets for all “Christmas at the Ren” events are available at the Renaissance Theatre Box Office, by calling 419-522-2726, or online at www.rentickets.org. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. Contact Maddie Penwell, Director of Development, at 419-522-2726 ext. 203 to learn more.