Check Your Pocket Watch and Don’t Be Late!
Wonderland has been taken over by the Mouse King and is stuck in an eternal winter in A Curiouser Nutcracker, a holiday version of Theater Works’ popular Curiouser & Curiouser. Filled with snow and the traditional music of Tchaikovsky, the family-friendly production catapults patrons into the worlds of Alice in Wonderland and The Nutcracker. With only 12 guests per performance, the multisensory experience invites audience members to investigate rooms, discover scenes, solve puzzles, enjoy performances and immerse themselves in a new way to experience theater. Call for times through Dec. 30. $36-$48. Peoria Center for the Performing Arts, 10580 N. 83rd Dr., Peoria, curiousertheater.org, 623-815-7930.
Deck the Halls with a One-of-a-Kind Tree
Designer-decorated Christmas trees, holiday wreaths, tabletop trees and centerpieces are on the auction block as Arizona Burn Foundation hosts its Festival of Trees Dec. 5. Switching to a virtual format this year, the 22nd annual gala includes behind-the-scenes glimpses of the designers’ creative process and their Christmas decorating tips, plus a Sedona-themed raffle tree that includes a two-night stay in the quaint town. The story of one family’s struggle, triumph, faith and hopefulness despite suffering a horrific home explosion is a highlight. Proceeds support the foundation’s burn survivor programs and prevention education initiatives. 5:30-7 p.m. Visit azburn.org to register for the free gala and to view items up for bid.
Enjoy a Festive Flick Under the Stars
Movie buffs are invited to bring a blanket, food and beverages to enjoy holiday movies on a giant inflatable screen. Featured hits include The Santa Clause, Dec. 4; Elf, Dec. 5; and Home Alone, Dec. 6. Gates open at 5 p.m. for a “socially distanced hour” during which guests can take in some holiday tunes and get settled into their designated spaces in groups up to four. Movies begin at 6 p.m. Check website for ticket prices; online registration is required. Scottsdale Civic Center, 3939 N. Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale, scottsdazzle.com, 480-312-7177.
Take the Kids on a Holiday Train Ride
Thousands of twinkling lights adorn trees and displays throughout McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, which is only accessible to those who have purchased tickets in advance. Visitors will have an opportunity to ride the train and carousel as many times as they’d like during their time slot, with rides loaded at 50 percent capacity. 6-9:30 p.m. through Jan. 3, with one-hour blocks at 6 p.m., 7:15 p.m. or 8:30 p.m. $15. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, 7301 E. Indian Bend Rd., Scottsdale, therailroadpark.com, 480-312-2312.
Get in the Spirit with Tempe Dance Academy
Chandler Center for the Arts turns into a winter wonderland as the dance ensemble presents Spirit of Christmas. Recorded last year, the virtual presentation celebrates traditions from around the world, from Asia to Eastern Europe to indigenous peoples of America. The holiday favorite features a cast of more than 100 dancers, singers and guest performers, including world champion hoop dancer Tony Duncan. The three-hour online event can be accessed Dec. 4-6, with patrons receiving a link to the performance via email. $20 per household, chandlercenter.org.
