This week, we have an eclectic mix of both holiday and non-holiday themed event picks for everyone. Those specifically seeking some holiday spirit will enjoy a modernized version of “The Nutcracker”and the New York Botanical Garden’s train show. For the rest of you, there are three picks you are sure to enjoy: a Duke Ellington concert, a fairytale fest and a King Tut exhibit. Happy fall to all!
Friday, November 20-Saturday, November 21
“The Hip Hop Nutcracker”
The United Palace
Friday: 8pm; Saturday: 2pm
This weekend, the classic holiday ballet will get a modern makeover at The United Palace in Washington Heights. A DJ and an electric violinist will update Tchaikovsky’s original score while hip hop dancers take the stage during this adaptation geared for the 21st century. Plus, the “King of Rap”, Kurtis Blow, will return as the show’s opening night special guest. Saturday’s matinee proceeds will benefit the United Palace of Performing Arts’ Youth Arts Academy. Tickets start at $10.
Beginning Saturday, November 21
Holiday Train Show
New York Botanical Garden
10am-6pm
The New York Botanical Garden’s annual Holiday Train Show is back this Saturday and is bigger than ever! This year’s exhibit will cover 3,000 square feet of additional space, with room for dozens of new G-scale trains, bridges, and a quarter mile of track. These amazingly detailed mini locomotives will speed past beloved sights like the Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty, and Rockefeller Center that are recreated with natural materials like bark and leaves. Plus, check out the rest of the garden’s 250 acres, and enjoy special tours, musical performances, and holiday activities for kids throughout the season. Free with garden admission. Runs through Monday, January 18, 2016.
“The Discovery of King Tut” Exhibit
Premier Exhibitions at 5th Avenue
11am-7pm
Ever wonder what it felt like to discover Tutankhamun’s tomb? Beginning this Saturday, visitors to Premier Exhibitions on 5th Avenue can experience “The Discovery of King Tut”, a one-of-a-kind exhibit that will display more than 1,000 replica artifacts and treasures that were buried in the tomb of arguably the most famous pharaoh in Egyptian history. The exhibition recreates the site of the tomb’s excavation based on the photographs of the original dig’s photographer, Harry Burton. Tickets start at $20. Runs through Sunday, May 1, 2016.
Saturday, November 21
Jazz for Young People: “Who is Duke Ellington?”
Symphony Space
11am & 1pm
Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Jazz for Young People series kicks off with “Who is Duke Ellington?”, a tribute to one of jazz’s great composers and performers. Led by Wynton Marsalis, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra will give an interactive performance following Ellington’s journey from DC to New York City, where his discovery of the blues and the development of his own innovative ideas would forever change the jazz landscape. Please note: This performance will take place at Symphony Space. Tickets start at $10.
Galli’s 2nd Fairytale Festival
The Galli Theater
3:30pm-5:30pm
Families with children of all ages can enjoy the best of what the Galli Theater has to offer during Galli’s second annual Fairytale Festival! This two-hour event will feature puppet shows of beloved fairy tales, a mini-theater workshop for kids, arts and crafts, and giveaways. The theater will also debut an exclusive fest production entitled “The Wolf and the 7 Little Goats.” Tickets start at $20.
