HANDEL’S ‘MESSIAH’
Tacoma Symphony Orchestra presents Handel’s celebrated oratorio, “Messiah,” in the perfect acoustic setting of St. Charles Borromeo Church, 7112 S. 12th St. The TSO Chorus has performed Handel’s “Messiah” as an annual tradition for 13 years running, and each season conductor Geoffrey Boers finds something different to emphasize. He brings in new soloists, features members of the chorus, and performs the work in different styles. Each year it’s like hearing this great work for the first time. Tickets $25 at http://www.broadwaycenter.org and at the box office.
TACOMA YOUTH THEATRE
The Herdmans are the worst kids in the history of the world. They lie, steal, smoke cigars, swear and hit little kids. So no one is prepared when this outlaw family invades church one Sunday and decides to take over the annual Christmas pageant in Barbara Robinson's “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.” This hilarious and touching play features both adult and youth actors, and is a perfect holiday show for the entire family.
Showtime is 7 p.m. Dec. 20 and 21 and 3 p.m. Dec. 22, 23 and 24 at 924-B Broadway. Tickets are $20 for adults and $5 for youth (under 18) at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/producer/502722.
D.A.S.H. FREE DAY
D.A.S.H. Center for the Arts is having a “Free Day” on Saturday, Dec. 21 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to show off all the great classes and programs it offers for kids and adults. Come and meet the great people who have built this one-of-a-kind arts school and try out as many classes as you like for free. Tickets will be sold for the dance showcase spectacular KRUNK! set for March 15 at Theatre on the Square. DASH is located in the downtown post office building at 1105 ‘A’ St. Visit http://www.thedashcenter.org to learn more or call (253) 507-9466.
JOHN KAY & STEPPENWOLF
Welcome in 2014 right at the Emerald Queen Casino with a free concert by John Kay & Steppenwolf. In the EQC I-5 Showroom, The Cronkites will open the stage with classic rock-and-roll at 8:30 p.m. John Kay & Steppenwolf will take over at 11 p.m. and ring in the New Year and beyond! A limit of two bracelets per guest will be handed out on a first-come, first-served basis beginning at 4:30 p.m. at the base of the EQC I-5 Showroom escalators. Must be 21 or older to enter.
CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE
Come out for a special one-hour Christmas evening service at New Horizon Christian Center, 5600 Valley Ave. E. in Fife, 5 p.m. Bring the family and enjoy candle lighting, cider, caroling and wonderful Christmas fun, with a special word from Pastor Joel Wolfe.