ART
MERRY & BRIGHT:
HOLIDAY POINSETTIA SHOW
Lauritzen Gardens
November 18—December 31
Admission: Adults: $15. Children: $9.
100 Bancroft St.
See the holiday magic at Lauritzen Gardens’ “Merry & Bright: Holiday Poinsettia Show.” Inside, you'll find thousands of beautiful poinsettia plants filling the floral display hall. Visit the iconic 20-foot tall poinsettia tree, tour the lush conservatory to see the holiday express, or find the perfect gift at the gift shop. You can make your visit even more joyful by toasting marshmallows at the fire pits in the Family Chill Zone. It's a cozy place for families to relax, play games, and enjoy the winter weather. S'mores kits are available for purchase at the front desk. Standard garden admission rates apply to experience this glowing tribute to the holidays. Members are admitted for free during the day. The garden is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with the last daytime entry at 3 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. 402.346.4002.
MUSIC
A MOTOWN CHRISTMAS
Orpheum Theater
November 13
Admission: Ticket Prices Vary.
409 S 16th St.
Experience an early festive showdown this fall by catching a holiday-themed show with immensely skilled and seasoned artists—it's not just for older folks; it's for everyone! The show will take place at the Orpheum Theater and promises to be an unforgettable night. “A Motown Christmas” will feature world-class, legendary singers from iconic groups like the Temptations, The Contours, and The Miracles. See the members of these legendary groups belt out R&B-renditions of classic Christmas songs and chart-topping hits from the 1960s and 1970s. In true Motown fashion, the performance is also set to showcase captivating costumes and remarkable choreography. Whether you have an affinity for the Motown era or just want to have a great time, attendees can look forward to exceptional musical renditions and danceable melodies on Monday, November 13. It's going to be a groovy and festive night! 402.661.8501.
FESTIVALS
HANDEL’S MESSIAH CONCERT
Holland Center of Performing Arts
November 19, 3 pm
Admission: Free.
1200 Douglas St.
Voices of Omaha proudly presents the 54th annual performance of Handel's Messiah as a heartfelt gift to the community, welcoming all without any admission charge. Led by Artistic Director Paul L. Koenig, this professional concert presents an experienced orchestra, accomplished soloists, and a well-prepared chorus, all coming together to offer a remarkable musical performance of this revered German masterpiece. This beloved tradition began in 1969 at the Omaha Civic Auditorium, marking the inception of an enduring legacy. Best of all, this holiday celebration is entirely free, welcoming everyone to enjoy the magic of Handel's Messiah with friends and family. Revel in the holiday spirit and visit the Holland for this special occasion and be part of the enduring tradition that continues to enchant and unite our community.
402.345.0202.
EXHIBITS
THAT WHICH CONNECTS US BY KEITH BUSWELL
November 15—December 31 at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. Through the imagery of trees, “That Which Connects Us” examines underground networks of tree roots and fungi that embody community as an analogy of humans’ own interpersonal relationships. Open daily, 9 am to 5 pm. 402.346.4002.
WHITE CHRISTMAS—THE EXHIBITION
November 21—January 28 at The Durham Museum, 801 S 10th St. The Durham will host this festive exibition during the museum’s Christmas at Union Station season. It will feature film, costumes created by legendary designer Edith Head, along with props, sheet music, behind-the-scenes photos, archival materials, and more from the 1954 film. Noon to 4 pm Sunday; 10 am to 4 pm Tuesday—Saturday. 402.444.50714.
WINTER OPEN HOUSE
December 2—3 at Hot Shops Art Center, 1301 Nicholas St. The Winter Open House will showcase 90 of Hot Shop’s resident artists who invite guests to see demonstrations and purchase their latest works. The artwork includes painting, photography, sculptures, pottery, glass art, weaving, quilts, jewelry, and more. Admission is free, but a $5 donation is requested. 402.342.6452.
NEO-CUSTODIANS: WOVEN NARRATIVES OF HERITAGE, CULTURAL MEMORY, AND BELONGING
December 7—April 2024 at Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, 724 S. 12th St. This exibition builds on, as well as expands on the conceptual function of textiles in exploring cultural practices, histories, heritage, and notional of belonging within the African and diasporic canon. 11 am to 5 pm Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday; 11 am to 9 pm Thursday. 402.341.7130.
PAOLO ARAO: REVERBERATIONS
December 7—April 2024 at Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, 724 S 12th St. Arao makes sewn paintings, weavings, and site-responsive installations that are rooted in geometric abstractions. This exibition will showcase Arao’s work over the past 5 years, including work he began as a resident at Bemis Center in 2020. 11 am to 5 pm Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday; 11 am to 9 pm Thursday. 402.341.7130.
FLIGHT AND HOPE
Through December 22 at the Samuel Bak Museum: The Learning Center, University of Nebraska-Omaha, 2289 S 67th St. This exhibition explores themes of flight, journey, and migration through Samuel Bak’s oeuvre informed by his experiences as a forced migrant and refugee in the aftermath of World War II. 10 am to 4 pm Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday; 10 am to 6 pm Thursday; noon to 4 pm Sunday. Admission: free. 402.554.6100.
JURASSIC NEBRASKA
Through January 2024 at Omaha Children’s Museum, 500 S 20th St. Children can experience what life would be like if dinosaurs were around in their everyday lives; toss a football against some ferocious defenders, explore and discover fossils in a giant dig pit, climb Chimney Rock to look a T-Rex in the eye, and more. 9 am to 4 pm Tuesday—Friday; 9 am to 5 pm Saturday—Sunday. 402.342.6164.
JULIA CHILD: A RECIPE FOR LIFE
Through February 2024 at The Durham Museum, 801 S 10th St. Julia Child’s insatiable curiosity and tenacious spirit drove her to endlessly try, test, prove and communicate how to make delicious food. This exibition explores the key ingredients that led to Julia’s personal evolution and America’s culinary revolution. Noon to 4 pm Sunday; 10 am to 4 pm Tuesday—Saturday. 402.444.5071.
SHARING THE GLORY: THE HISTORY OF BASEBALL IN OMAHA
Through May 2024 at General Crook House Museum, 5730 N 30th St. The Douglas County Historical society’s 2023-2024 exibition is a homer. This exibition will focus on Omaha’s rich and extensive history and love of baseball. The General Crook House Museum is open seven days a week. 10 am to 4pm Monday—Friday, 1pm to 4pm Saturday and Sunday. 402.455.9990.
CONCERTS
SHANiA TWAIN: QUEEN OF ME TOUR
November 2, 7:30pm at CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N 10th St. See one of music’s biggest stars as she makes a stop in Omaha a on her current national tour, extended due to popular demand. A portion of every ticket purchased to this concert will be donated to SKC, who provides services that promote positive change in children’s lives in times of crisis and economic hardship. 402.341.1500
ABRAHAM ALEXANDER
November 3, 8 pm at Slowdown, 729 N 14th St. From open mics in Fort Worth, TX to recent stints on the road opening for Leon Bridges, Ani DiFranco, and Mavis Staples— an instructive trinity for his sound— Alexander is ready for the headlining spotlight and to articulate what many are feeling. 402.345.7569
THE MAGIC FLUTE
November 3—4, 7:30 pm at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. In an evening of magic and wonder, Maestro Anguish Kumar Bahl is joined by the Principal Flutist of the Seattle Symphony, Demarre McGill, for the memorable and sparkling Concerto for Flute and Orchestra by Kevin Puts. 402.345.0202.
NEEDTOBREATHE
November 3, 7 pm at Steelhouse Omaha, 1114 Dodge St. NEEDTOBREATHE presents The Caves World Tour, with special guest Judah & the Lion. 402.345.0606.
Aerosmith: PEACE OUT The Farewell Tour With the Black Crowes
November 10, 7 pm at CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N 10th St. Omaha fans can enjoy one last live encounter with four-time GRAMMY-winning American rock legends Aerosmith at their final concert tour with special guests the Black Crowes. Experience five decades of the band’s groundbreaking hits in one rockin’ night. 402.341.1500
Las Cafeteras
November 10, 7:30 pm at Orpheum Theater, 409 S 16th St. The Chicano band from East Los Angeles brings a sonic explosion of Afro-Mexican rhythms to the stage. Experience their powerful lyrics and contagious beats that bring folk music to another level. 402.345.0606
BELLES
November 10, 8 pm at Reverb Lounge, 6121 Military Ave. With stunning vocals and lyrics as rich as the soil of her native land Nebraska, Kelli Rachel Belles’ natural charisma, storytelling, heart, and wit come through her songs. She is bringing her brand of country music, Wildflower Country, to 21 cities across the country. 402.884.5707.
Maverick City Music
November 12, 7 pm at Steelhouse Omaha, 1100 Dodge St. Join the American contemporary worship music collective at Steelhouse this November. Originating from Atlanta, the group brings a new sound to worship and gospel hits. 402.345.0606.
BRAHM’S GERMAN REQUIEM
November 12, 7:30 pm at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Join Omaha Symphony as hundreds of incredible high school choristers come together with the orchestra performing a choral masterpiece conducted by Maestro Ernest Richardson. Brahm’s German requiem is a powerful and emotional work sure to leave a lasting impression. 402.345.0202
THE IGUANAS
November 18, 8 pm at The Waiting Room Lounge, 6212 Maple St. With eight studio albums and countless tours and Jazz Fest appearances, The Iguanas’ three-decade run has taken them all over the map musically and geographically, yet the inescapable patina of New Orleans infuses every note they play. 402.884.5353.
Pentatonix The Most Wonderful Tour Of The Year
November 21, 7 pm at CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N 10th St. The renowned a capella group takes the stage in Omaha this holiday season! Enjoy the group’s popular classic Christmas song covers and original hits, along with new songs from their seventh holiday album. 402.341.1500
HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF-BLOOD PRINCE IN CONCERT
November 25—26, 7:30 pm at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. In Projected onto a giant screen and accompanied by a live symphony orchestra, the audience can join in on Harry’s adventures like never before. Nicholas Hooper’s wonderful score and this classic tale combine to deliver all the adventure, humor, and suspense in an unforgettable experience. 402.345.0202
Moon Taxi
December 6, 9 pm at The Slowdown, 729 N 14th St. Join Nashville-based indie-alternative rock band Moon Taxi for an electrifying musical experience. From chart-topping hits to soul-stirring melodies, this band brings their unique sound to Omaha. 402.345.7569
Doja Cat - The Scarlet Tour
December 8, 6:30 pm at CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N 10th St.
GRAMMY-winning global superstar Doja Cat is bringing her artistry to Omaha for her first North American Arena Tour this December. The Scarlet Tour brings Doja Cat’s greatest hits to the stage alongside special guest Ice Spice. 402.341.1500
Jingle Jam – Ja Rule & Ashanti
December 10, 7 pm at Baxter Arena, 2524 S 67th St. Experience the second annual Jingle Jam concert this holiday season. Featuring artists like Ja Rule, Ashanti, Lloyd, Twista, and Do Or Die, this performance-filled night will get you in the holiday spirit. 402.554.6200
CANDLELIGHT: THE FOUR SEASONS & MORE
December 13, 6:30 pm at The Rose Theater, 2001 Farnam St. Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience with their candlelit concerts in awe-inspiring locations. This candlelit musical evening will feature a local string quartet playing Vivaldi’s iconic Four Seasons.
PHYSICIANS MUTUAL OMAHA SYMPHONY CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION
December 14—17, 7:30 pm at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Maestro Ernest Richardson, the Omaha Symphony, and a stellar cast of singers and dancers send spirits soaring with festive favorites and Christmas classics. 402.345.0202
CANDLELIGHT HOLIDAY SPECIAL
December 20, 6:30 pm at The Rose Theater, 2001 Farnam St. Under the gentle glow of candlelight, a local string quartet will play a variety of holiday classics. Patrons will get to hear iconic pieces from Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker, along with classic hymns such as “Deck the Halls” and “O Holy Night” at the Rose Theater.
MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER CHRISTMAS BY CHIP DAVIS
December 22—23, 7:30pm at Orpheum Theater, 409 S 16th St. This musical spectacle has been America’s favorite holiday tradition for over 35 years. The program includes dazzling multimedia effects performed in an intimate setting. Audiences can experience the magic as the spirit of the season comes alive with the signature sounds of Mannheim Steamroller. 402.345.0606
STAGE PERFORMANCES
Matt Rife: ProbleMATTic World Tour
November 4—5, 7 pm at Steelhouse Omaha, 1100 Dodge St. Popular comedian Matt Rife visits Omaha for two consecutive nights. See his refreshingly genuine and quick-witted comedy at these 21+ shows. 402.345.0606.
PIPELINE
Through November 5 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. Where does the pipeline to prison begin? A gripping, thought-provoking, harrowing drama, Pipeline is the journey of a mother and educator who tries desperately to keep both her son and her students on the straight-and-narrow paths. It is an examination of the American education system and the obstacles that students, educators and parents encounter to achieve success. 402.553.0800
URINETOWN
November 16—December 3 at University of Nebraska Omaha, 6505 University Dr. S. In a Gotham-like city, a terrible water shortage, caused by a 20-year drought, has led to a government-enforced ban on private toilets. The citizens must use public amenities, regulated by a single malevolent company that profits by charging admission for one of humanity’s most basic needs. Amid the people, a hero decides that he’s had enough and plans a revolution to lead them all to freedom. 402.554.7529.
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
November 17—December 23 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. It just isn’t Christmas without A Christmas Carol. Experience Omaha’s favorite holiday tradition as Ebenezer Scrooge takes us on a life-changing journey to discover the true meaning of Christmas. The must-see holiday event for the entire family, filled with stunning Victorian costumes, festive music and crisp, wintery sets. 402.553.0800.
A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS - LIVE ON STAGE
November 18 at Steelhouse Omaha, 1114 Dodge St. A fresh take on the beloved classic, "A Charlie Brown Christmas – Live on Stage" faithfully portrays Peanuts characters with real actors. This Emmy-winning story by Charles M. Schulz has warmed hearts for over 50 years. The live adaptation includes favorite scenes, more fun, music, and a chance for the audience to sing along with the Peanuts gang as they discover the true Christmas spirit. 402.345.0606.
A VERY DIE HARD CHRISTMAS
November 24—December 17 at Bluebarn Theatre, 1106 10th St. Bluebarn’s holiday smash hit is back. This play takes audiences to Nakatomi Place as John McClane battles Hans Gruber with Christmas itself on the line. This madcap celebration of 1980s nostalgia will have audience members rolling in the aisles, whether they are a Die Hard virgin or know every line of the movie by heart. 402.345.1576.
SISTER’S CHRISTMAS CATECHISM: THE MYSTERY OF THE MAGI'S GOLD
November 24—December 23 at Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. This show is a holiday extravaganza full of laughs and audience participation. A brassy and bossy nun formally known as “Sister” retells the nativity story and unwraps the mystery that has intrigued historians throughout the ages— whatever happened to the Magi’s Gold? Employing her scientific tools, assisted by a local choir and audience banter, Sister delivers a humorous and irresistible satire that will keep you on your toes. 402.553.0800.
MY FAIR LADY
November 28—December 3 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S 16th St. Boasting such classic songs as “I Could Have Danced All Night,” “The Rain in Spain,” and “Wouldn’t It Be Lovely,” My Fair Lady tells the story of Eliza Doolittle, a young Cockney flower seller, and Henry Higgins, a linguistics professor who is determined to transform her into his idea of a “proper lady.” But who is really being transformed? 402.661.8501.
Cirque du Soleil : Corteo
November 30—December 3 at CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N 10th St. Experience the visual story of a nostalgic clown who dreams about his funeral and looks back on his personal experiences. Corteo is guided through a timeless ceremony in which fantasy teases reality with music, resulting in a visually stunning performance. 402.341.1500.
RUDOLPH THE RED NOSED REINDEER
December 1—23 at The Rose Theater, 2001 Farnam St. The beloved TV classic soars off-screen and onto the stage. Audiences will join Santa, Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius, and, of course, Rudolph in this puppet-filled musical spectacular that speaks to the misfit in everyone. 402.345.4849.
Mark Normand: Ya Don’t Say Tour
December 8, 8 pm at Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. Experience Mark Normand’s comedy live in Omaha this December. Dubbed by Jerry Seinfeld as the “best young up and coming comic,” Normand is one of the most talked about touring comedians on the scene. 402.345.0202.
THE NUTCRACKER
December 9—10 at Orpheum Theater, 409 S 16th St. Visual splendor, dazzling spectacle, a charming story, and brilliant classical dancing- it’s no wonder the America Midwest Ballet’s version of the world’s favorite holiday ballet is a family tradition. Fresh, lively, and thoroughly entertaining, The Nutcracker highlights the versatility of AMB’s cast of professional artists, backed by a polished ensemble of student dancers from across the metro area. 712.890.5590.
MORE
Best of Omaha 2023 Soirée!
November 2, (time) at The Granary, 7401 Main Street You’re invited! Voters are welcome to come mingle with this year’s Best of Omaha winners at our celebratory cocktail party. Enjoy delicious samples, signature drinks, entertainment, and more! Winners are welcome to pick up their winner packet and network with hundreds of fellow award winners. 402.884.2000.
OWL PROWL
November 17—18 at Fontenelle Forest, 1111 Bellevue Blvd N. Guests will have a chance to explore the mysterious world of owls. They will learn about the owls of Nebraska and meet Fontenelle’s educational owls up-close. Activities will be both indoors and outdoors, including s’more sand hot chocolate around a fire pit and a guided hike to look and listen for owls. 402.731.3140.
OMAHA TURKEy TROT 5K
November 23 at Charles Schwab Field, 1200 Mike Fahey St. Join the Thanksgiving tradition at the 7th annual Omaha Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk! Omaha’s very own Cake Creation Donuts will be waiting for you at the finish line. After running on Thanksgiving morning, you've earned a treat! This event supports the Make-A-Wish foundation, which grants the wishes of kids with serious medical conditions to bring hope and happiness. It's a wonderful way to celebrate Thanksgiving and give back to the community. 224.757.5425.
LIGHTING CEREMONY
November 25, 6pm at Gene Leahy Mall at The Riverfront, 1001 Douglas St. The lighting ceremony serves as the official “kick-off” for the 2023 Holiday Lights Festival. A short performance by Musical Kids will precede the program, where Mayor Jean Stothert and emcee Terri McCormick from STAR 104.5 The Christmas Station will lead the Omaha community in a countdown to start off the holiday season.
Monster Jam
November 25—26, 2 pm at CHI Health Center Omaha, 455 N 10th St. Bring the whole family to experience this thrilling, massive truck show! Going strong since the early 1990s, this one-of-a-kind experience features some of the best drivers and monster trucks in the world. 402.341.1500..
2023 Testify Christmas Classic Weightlifting Meet
December 2, 6 am at Testify Strength & Conditioning, 14505 Grover St. Testify Strength & Conditioning is hosting their annual Christmas Classic Weightlifting Meet. Male and female competitors in Masters, Senior, Junior, and Youth divisions are eligible to compete!
Nerdmas II – Return of the Weirdos
December 2, 11 am at Liberty First Credit Union Arena, 7300 Q St. For those seeking the holiday spirit beyond the usual Christmas traditions, visit this craft and vendor show for Nerds, Geeks, and Gamers! The show will feature action figures, fantasy, sci-fi, comic books, video games, and more. 402.934.9966.
Family Workshop: Gingerbread House
December 2, 12 pm at Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St. This family-friendly workshop allows guests the opportunity to decorate their own gingerbread house to take home! One gingerbread kit will be provided per family. Pre-register and celebrate the holidays with this sweet activity! 402.346.4002.
DIY Nutcracker Workshop
December 7, 6 pm at Creative Culture Omaha, 1410 Howard St. Open to all ages, join Creative Culture for a fun night of creating DIY wooden nutcrackers. Wear your favorite ugly sweater and enjoy a hot cocoa bar with family and friends! 531.867.3278.
Holiday Craft & Vendor Market
December 9, 10 am at Westside Community Center, 3535 S 108th St. Join DogGurt and over 75 other local vendors for Westside’s second-annual Craft & Vendor market! Bring kids and pets to take pictures with Santa, and enjoy food trucks, raffles, and more! 402.390.3331.
WINTER WONDERLAND
December 9—January 2 at Fontenelle Forest, 1111 Bellevue Blvd N. Fontenelle Forest invites visitors to enjoy a festive holiday display of decorated trees and wreaths in the Nature Center’s Great Hall, bundle up and enjoy a stroll along the first loop of the lighted Riverview Boardwalk, experience holiday lights against the beautiful and unique backdrop of an urban forest, and decorate wooden tree cookie ornaments as a reminder of their visit. 402.371.3140.
Omaha Startups Holiday Party
December 14, 6 pm at Kimpton Cottonwood Hotel, 302 S 36th St. Join the holiday fun with fellow startup folks at this third annual networking party. If your company is too small for a party of your own, celebrate the holidays with other community members in support of the growing Nebraska startup ecosystem!
Omaha Fairytale Ball
December 17, 10 am at Scott Conference Center, 6450 Pine St. Join your favorite princesses and friends at this magical event! This event features ten performances and activities for the whole family. Each session also includes a meet & greet for photos, hugs, and autographs. Enjoy stories, songs, dances, crafts, games, and more!
—scottcenter.com
This article originally appeared in the November/December 2023 issue of Omaha Magazine. To receive the magazine, click here to subscribe.