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CONTENTS
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Visit Frontier City’s Holiday in the Park lighting extravaganza. Lyric’s “A Christmas Carol” returns to the Harn Homestead. Canterbury Voices joins with the OKC Philharmonic to present “Messiah.” OKC Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” stays true to the original performance. “For America” is on exhibit at the OKC Museum of Art. For the first time since 1992, the OKC Zoo will be lighted for the holidays. Join the OKC Philharmonic for its “The Christmas Show” featuring Rachel York. There is so much to do Downtown in December.
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A deLIGHTful time awaits at Frontier City Frontier City, Oklahoma’s only theme park, is ringing in the holiday season with twinkling lights, heart‑warming holiday entertainment and delicious treats during its annual holiday extravaganza, Holiday in the Park, starting Nov. 20 on weekends and select days through Jan. 2, 2022. Witness the beauty of dazzling lights by the thousands strung from the treetops, all the way to main street buildings and trickling down to the icy lake below the Mystery River Log Flume. Lights of every color cover the park to create the perfect winter atmosphere for guests to experience all the attractions Frontier City has to offer. Reach the top of the Grand Centennial Ferris Wheel to get the absolute best views of the park all lit up. After taking in the sights, hop on the Wildcat and climb 75 feet in the air. Try to catch a glimpse of Santa’s reindeer flying through the night sky while you are up there. To top off all the thrills, check out Silver Bullet in the dark for a whole new experience that is sure to be the cherry on top of your year. 4 | OKC FRIDAY Community Magazine
Speaking of cherries… The best part of the holidays are the sweet treats! Indulge in a cup of rich hot chocolate or a funnel cake in exclusive fla‑ vors. You also won’t want to miss the S’mores Pit where you can make scrumptious snacks with your friends and family as you share merry memories from the day. Frontier City will also take a bite out of hunger and host a food drive during the holiday season benefitting the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. Guests who get into the spirit of giving and donate can receive a dis‑ counted ticket to Holiday in the Park. Visit SixFlags.com/ Frontier City for more information. OKC FRIDAY Community Magazine | 5
Lyric’s “A Christmas Carol” returns to the Harn Homestead Nov. 17 through Dec. 23.
Ibso!Ipnftufbe!sfjnbhfe!gps!Mzsjd!qspevdujpo Lyric Theatre’s internationally acclaimed production of “A Christmas Carol’’ returns this month in an all‐new, expanded spec‐ tacular event, whisking audiences away to a magical holiday village nestled in the heart of Oklahoma City. The historic Harn Homestead, 1721 N. Lincoln Blvd., once again will be reimag‐ ined as the Victorian Era setting for Ebenezer Scrooge, Jacob Marley, magical spirits, and a host of unforgettable charac‐
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ters. Patrons will follow Charles Dickens’ timeless tale of transformation and redemption, as they are guided from scene to scene at the homestead. Last year’s fam‐ ily‐friendly production garnered praise from both The New York Times and BBC News for being among just a select number of theatres in the world staging the holiday favorite. See CAROL, Page 12
‘Messiah’— Canterbury signs songs of joy Celebrating the holiday season in spectacular form, Canterbury Voices presents the choral masterpiece “Messiah” at the Civic Center Music Hall on Sunday, Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. One of the most beloved choral oratorios, George Frideric Handel’s “Messiah” begins with the phrase “Comfort ye my people.” In a year when people need comfort more than ever, Canterbury Voices joins with the OKC Philharmonic, bringing to life this beloved Oklahoma City event. Joining the performance are Dr. Kelly Holst, lyric coloratura soprano, professor of music at Oklahoma City University; Dr. Courtney Crouse, mezzo soprano, professor of music at Oklahoma City University; Steven Sanders, tenor, associate professor of Music at Oklahoma State University;
and Mark McCrory, associ‐ ate professor of music at the Canterbury Voices joins OKC Philharmonic for the University of Dec. 5 performance of “Messiah.” Oklahoma. Canterbury Voices Artistic In partnership with the Civic Director Dr. Randi Von Ellefson said, Center Music Hall, safety measures “Handel once said this about for this season will include requiring ‘Messiah’ — ‘I should be sorry if I masks for all concert goers, regard‐ only entertained them; I wished to less of vaccination status. In addition, make them better.’ all performers and staff at the Civic “The great oratorio by Handel is Center are fully vaccinated and per‐ well known, and I hope that when formers will be tested before the per‐ you hear it performed live in concert formance. — it WILL make you better by feed‐ Tickets are now on sale and group ing your soul, bringing you joy and discounts are available. Call the Box bestowing a musical blessing on Office at (405) 232‐ SING or visit everyone as we celebrate the holiday CanterburyOKC.com for ticket infor‐ season.” mation.
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‘Nutcracker’ stays true to original
O OKC Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” is set to be staged Dec. 1119. ‐ Photo by Kate Luber
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Oklahoma City Ballet will stage its hol‐ iday performances of “The Nutcracker” at the Civic Center Music Hall, Dec. 11‐ 19, 2021 for an 8‐show performance run. This beloved holiday classic choreo‐ graphed by Artistic Director Robert Mills stays true to the original libretto that premiered in 1892 at the Marinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg. OKCPHIL will perform Tchaikovsky’s familiar score live at every performance, and new this year, Canterbury Voices will provide vocals during the iconic snowflake scene. Single tickets start at $30 and are available now through Oklahoma City Ballet and Civic Center Box offices. They are also available online at okcballet.org. Guests can purchase separate tickets to the family‐friendly fundraising event, The Nutcracker Tea in the Kingdom of Sweets, which will be held in the Meinders Hall of Mirrors at the Civic Center Music Hall on Saturday, Dec. 18, 4‐6 p.m. Tickets to The Nutcracker Tea are $50 and will go on sale Nov. 15. One hour prior to each performance,
the lobby will open for guests to shop at The Nutcracker Boutique, featuring more than 50 different nutcrackers, holiday gifts and OKC Ballet merchandise. The lobby will also include an interactive photo booth. Audiences at Oklahoma City Ballet performances will be required to wear masks while inside the Civic Center Music Hall, but are not required to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test. Performances of “The Nutcracker” will take place on Saturday, Dec. 11 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 12 at 2 p.m.; Friday, Dec. 17 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 18 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 19 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets may be purchased by calling Oklahoma City Ballet (405)848‐TOES (8637), online at okcballet.org, or by calling the Civic Center Box office at 405‐297‐2264. The Oklahoma City Ballet Box Office is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is located at 6800 North Classen.
“For America: Paintings from the National Academy of Design” is on exhibit at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art.
‘For America’ tells a unique story of art
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Featuring nearly 100 paintings and 200 years of American history, “For America: Paintings from the National Academy of Design” at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art (OKCMOA) runs through Jan. 30, 2022. Organized by the American Federation of Arts and the National Academy of Design the exhibition is comprised of paintings by masters such as Winslow Homer, Jaune Quick‐ to‐See Smith, John Singer Sargent, Peter Saul, Charles White, Andrew Wyeth, and many more that tell a unique history of American art through the eyes of many of the best‐known American artists. “This exhibition offers a glimpse into the ways American artists have defined themselves and their painted worlds over the past two centuries,” said OKCMOA curator Catherine Shotick. “This is the first time these works have traveled together to tell this uniquely American story, and OKC will be the final stop on the national tour. These are incredible paint‐ ings that people will recognize from art history textbooks and I cannot wait for visitors to see them.” Since its founding in 1825, the mission of the National Academy of Design (or the Academy) has been simple yet powerful: to provide a means for the training of American artists and to promote and exhibit their art. Every artist elected as an Academician must donate one of their artworks to the Academy’s collection, otherwise known as a “diploma work.” Beginning in 1839, Academicians were also required to donate a portrait of themselves for the collection. These “diploma portraits” were either painted by their own hand or that of a fellow artist. Such gifts of “diploma works” and “diploma portraits” are the defining feature of the Academy’s collection and the focus of “For America.” By presenting artists’ portraits together with their representative works, See AMERICA, Page 12 OKC FRIDAY Community Magazine | 9
Holiday lights return to the OKC Zoo in a wild way! This winter, go wild and fill your holiday season with the magic of light! The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden announces OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS, the first holiday light event at the OKC Zoo since 1992. This seasonal celebration of won‐ der and illumination features larger‐ than‐life light displays showcasing over 50 themed light sculptures high‐ lighting wildlife, aquatic animals, pre‐ historic creatures and more – all viewable on a driving tour through the Zoo. The estimated drive time to complete the OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS tour is 20‐30 minutes. After driving through the Zoo,
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guests can park and re‐enter the Zoo to continue on an immersive walking tour of the entry plaza with an origi‐ nal musical light performance designed by Miranda Family Lights of Edmond, who were featured on “The Great Christmas Light Fight” show. Guests can continue through the Children’s Zoo to see interactive light displays, enjoy seasonal sweets and drinks available for purchase and shop for one‐of‐a‐kind toys and gift ideas at the Zoo’s gift shops. Also included in the OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHT experience is the highly popu‐ lar DINO SAFARI with animatronic life‐size dinosaurs, which will be illu‐ minated for the event. OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS continues through Sunday, Jan. 9, 2022 and is open from 5:30‐11 p.m. nightly. Make plans to get photos with Santa every Thursday through Sunday from Nov. 6 through Dec. 25, in the Zoo’s Canopy Restaurant.
Online reservations are required for OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS. Drive‐up purchases will not be accepted. Tickets are limited to ensure optimal guest experience. Admission for the drive‐thru experience is $50/vehicle for ZOOfriends members or $60/vehi‐ cle (non‐members) this fee also includes up to 4 walk‐thru admission tickets. For oversized vehicles seating 9‐15 people, under 10’ tall and 25’ long, admission is $80/vehicle for ZOOfriends members or $90/vehicle (non‐members) this fee also includes up to 6 walk‐thru admission tickets. Admission for the walk‐thru only is $10/guest ages 3+ for ZOOfriends members or $12/guest ages 3+ (non‐ members). This holiday event is open starting Saturday, Nov. 6 and Sunday, Nov. 7, from 6:30 to 11 p.m. each night. Prepare for the holiday season and purchase event tickets at okczoo.org.
OKCPHIL show is back! A Broadway‐style pro‐ duction complete with singers, dancers, beauti‐ ful costumes, lighting, and a spectacular Broadway Star plus a special visit from Santa is your idea of an exciting way to kick off a wonderful holi‐ day season then brace yourself! After a year on hiatus due to COVID restric‐ tions, the OKCPHIL announces “The Christmas Show” featuring Broadway star Rachel York is back. The production created by Music Director Emeritus Joel Levine with Lyn Cramer directing and choreographing is sure to get you into a festive spirit. Shows are Dec. 3 at 8 p.m. or Dec. 4 at 2 p.m. or 8 p.m. and will include music ranging from upbeat and whimsical to moments of quiet reflection. In addition, the OK Pops Chorale and everyone’s favorite, the tap‐dancing Santas are set to perform. The production features Rachel York, a dynamic and versatile actress most recently seen on Broadway in the
musical Head Over Heels. For more infor‐ mation and tickets, visit okcphil.org/concerts/the‐christ‐ mas‐show‐2021, call 405‐TICK‐ ETS (405‐842‐5387) weekdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., or (405) 774‐9868 or email tickets@okcphil.org.
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MUSEUM
From Page 9
“For America” offers an opportunity to see how the artists viewed both themselves and their country. The museum will offer a free public lecture on opening day, curator‐led public tours on select Fridays and Saturdays and a series of virtual seminars. Kicking off the exhibition on opening day at 11 a.m. will be “What's in a Self‐Portrait: Earlier American Case Studies” in the Noble Theater by Susan Rather, Ph.D., Meredith and Cornelia Long Chair in Art and Art History at The University of Texas at Austin. A book signing in the Museum Store will follow the lecture. Programming will continue with a virtual seminar series led by Dr. Richard Bell, Professor of History at the University of Maryland. Titled “Virtual Seminars: New Perspectives on American History,” sessions are $15 for members and $25 for non‐members. “In conjunction with the exhibition, we are offering a series of 90‐minute live virtual seminars that explore American histo‐ ry and culture,” said Rosie May, director of curatorial affairs and audience engagement. “These seminars will highlight sub‐ jects ranging from ‘Hamilton’ to Juneteenth to our shared cul‐ ture and language. We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Richard Bell as the facilitator of this innovative new series.” This exhibition is accompanied by a richly illustrated cata‐ logue published by the American Federation of Arts which will be on sale in the Museum Store. “For America: Paintings from the National Academy of Design” is organized by the American Federation of Arts and the National Academy of Design. For more information, visit okcmoa.com.
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Performances of Lyric’s “A Christmas Carol’’ – now in its 11th year – are Nov. 17 through Dec. 23. Tickets to the immersive production are now available. “We’ve brought artists together to create a 360‐degree holiday experience that sparks the true spirit of the holidays through timeless storytelling, joyous music, beautifully decorated trees and dazzling cos‐ tumes in a most unique panoramic setting,” said Lyric Producing Artistic Director Michael Baron. “Expect surprises around every corner at the Harn Homestead where Dickens’ story unfolds at Scrooge’s office, Jacob Marley’s house, the magical grove of The Ghost of Christmas Past, Fezziwig’s party at the barn, the torch‐filled graveyard of The Ghost of Christmas Future, and so many more reveals along the way.” Continuing an equally cherished holiday tradition, audiences are invited to contribute to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma following each performance. During the past 10 years, Lyric Theatre patrons have donated nearly $200,000 to help feed thousands of Oklahomans in need. Last year’s attendees helped provide meals for more than 64,000 people. Tickets will be limited to 200 guests for each performance. To pur‐ chase, or for more information, visit LyricTheatreOKC.org, or call Lyric’s Box Office at (405) 524‐9312. Net proceeds from this event benefit Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma and its educational programs. An additional portion of each ticket sold will also benefit the Harn Homestead. The 75‐minute performance is staged in the open air to allow par‐ ties to social distance. Patrons are encouraged to arrive early for refreshments and photo opportunities. Free parking is available at the entrance to the homestead.
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Holiday fun Downtown in December Oklahoma City Tree Lighting Festival Nov. 18, 5‐7 p.m. 2 S. Mickey Mantle Dr. The festival, which is free and open to everyone, will feature a showcase of talented and diverse performances celebrating the sea‐ son, free family‐friendly activities, photos with Santa Claus and the traditional countdown to the lighting of the Bricktown Christmas Tree with Mayor David Holt. Lights On Broadway Nov. 20, 27 and Dec. 4, 11, 4‐7 p.m. Automobile Alley Cruise down historic Automobile Alley for the district’s holiday open house and experience the stunning light display during the sixth annual Lights On Broadway event!
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Saints Santa Run Dec. 4, 7‐11 a.m. Midtown Each year, the family‐friendly holiday run brings all ages, and even pets, to downtown Oklahoma City for a festive 5K. A Dog Day in December Dec. 2, 5:30‐8 p.m. Midtown Mutts Dog Park Bring the pups out to the Midtown Mutts Dog Park on Thursday, Dec. 2, 5:30‐8 p.m. for a pet‐themed holiday party! Devon Ice Rink Nov. 5 ‐ Jan. 30, 2022 Myriad Botanical Gardens The Devon Ice Rink is returning for its 2021‐2022 season in the Myriad Botanical Gardens.
LifeShare WinterFest & Snow Tubing Nov. 26 ‐ Dec. 31 Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark LifeShare WinterFest at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark has returned and riding down the gigantic snow tubing slope is a thrill you won’t want to miss! From snow tubing and holiday movies on the video board, to sparkling lights and décor, these holiday festivities within the ballpark are perfect for creating memories for years to come. Downtown Light Displays Nov. ‐ Dec., Downtown‐wide Downtown OKC is full of beautiful light displays to enjoy throughout the holiday season! Explore each district and experience the different light installations and decorations with
your family and friends. Curbside Chronicle's Wrap Up Homelessness & Holiday Wreaths November‐December Various pop‐up loca‐ tions Make the holidays extra bright and positively impact your community by supporting Curbside Chronicle's Wrap Up Homelessness Campaign and Holiday Wreaths. Each year, Curbside Chronicle and Curbside Flowers employs individuals transitioning out of homelessness to sell the unique gift wrap packages and create gor‐ geous wreaths of varying sizes and price points for all to enjoy. Purchase a festive wreath in store at Curbside Flowers and online at curbsideflow‐ ers.com. Have Yourself a Myriad Little Christmas
Nov. 26 ‐ Jan. 2, 2022 Myriad Botanical Gardens Myriad Botanical Gardens is a pop‐ ular destination to enjoy all that the holidays have to offer. Visitors can stroll through beautiful light dis‐ plays and decorations throughout the grounds as well as participate in special events and attractions throughout the season. ’Tis the Season at Scissortail Park Nov. 26 ‐ Jan. 6, 2022 Scissortail Park Celebrate the season at Scissortail Park with a variety of festivities including the Union Station Illumination, a free concert, holiday lights and tours, the Menorah Lighting, visits with Santa Claus and more. Everyone is invited to bundle up, stroll the grounds, enjoy the lights, and soak in the hol‐ iday spirit.
Holiday Pop‑Up Shops Nov. 26 ‐ Dec. 19 Corner of 10th & Hudson in Midtown The Holiday Pop‐Up Shops are returning to Midtown in Downtown Oklahoma City for their 10th year in 2021! This year’s event will bring back the iconic geodesic domes along with the market tents intro‐ duced last season. With local shops rotating weekly, you are sure to find a gift for everyone on your list. OKC Streetcar Free Weekend Rides Nov. 19 ‐ Jan. 2, 2022 Downtown‐wide Enjoy complimentary fares on the OKC Streetcars on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays as you take in all the destinations, events, and attractions that Downtown in December has to offer. Warm up, shop local, and love the loops for free this holiday season!
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