The time of treacle and sugarplums is upon us, with no fewer than six versions of A Christmas Carol — including the annual production at the Goodman — and at least five variations on The Nutcracker (not all of them dance) occupying center stage. There’s even a Nutcracker on Horseback offered by the Noble Horse Theatre, through Jan. 8, which incorporates show riding and equestrian tricks into the familiar tale, and lets kids pet the horses at the curtain call. Most of the holiday shows are suitable for families with children as young as four or five.
Even shows that aren’t specifically holiday-themed have been selected with festivities and/or families in mind, such as Oliver! at the Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire, Dec. 7-Feb. 12, with multiple Jefferson Award winner Greg Vinkler as Fagin; or The Sound of Music at Light Opera Works, Dec. 26-Jan. 1.
