Joffrey Ballet artist Hyuma Kiyosawa in “The Nutcracker”/Photo: Katie Miller

1
The Nutcracker
(Lyric Opera House)
The Joffrey Ballet’s Chicago-centric holiday treat has become a mainstay of the season. Choreography by Christopher Wheeldon, set design by Tony winners Julian Crouch and celebrated children’s author Brian Selznick, and puppetry by Basil Twist place the tale in the 1893 World’s Fair with imagination and dazzle.
December 6-28

2
Antaranga: Between You and Me
(Links Hall)
Femme ensemble Ananya Dance Theatre presents a multidisciplinary dance theater work set in an alternate world where humans can no longer connect with one another. But a few open-hearted beings remain and, through their sojourns, may yet heal the world.
December 6 & 7

3
Winter Wonderland
(Harold Washington Cultural Center)
The Chicago Tap Allstars, a collective encompassing M.A.D.D. Rhythms, Chicago Tap Theatre and independent artists, present a multigenerational holiday music and tap spectacular for one afternoon only. 
December 14

4
Holiday Rhythms
(Jazz Showcase)
Chicago Human Rhythm Project’s annual intimate holiday jazz and tap show runs two Mondays, offering different programs with guest appearances from flamenco artist Wendy Clinard and Trinity Irish Dance Company.
December 9 & 16

5
The Nutcracker
(Harris Theater)
On the occasion of their anniversary, the Ballet Chicago school presents a traditional take on The Nutcracker with all the trimmings—for those who like their Land of the Sweets uncut.
December 20-22