The holiday season in Boulder County is brimming with festive performances, offering a perfect way to celebrate with family and friends. This year, the Rocky Mountain Revels will present the “Extremely Wonderful New York Holiday Radio Show” at the Dairy Arts Center on December 21 and 22, featuring a blend of music, dance, and storytelling in a communal setting. Tickets for the show range from $28.75 to $57.50 and can be purchased through the venue’s website.
Founded in 2002, the Rocky Mountain Revels troupe follows a tradition that originated in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in 1971. The group combines diverse artistic elements to create an engaging winter celebration. Their performances are entirely volunteer-driven, showcasing the talents of musicians and a cast that includes individuals from various age groups, from children to retirees.
This year’s production, inspired by a 1950s New York radio broadcast, tells the story of a live event that unravels when the main performers do not show up. The concept was developed by board member and cast member Paul Kapustka, who joined the Revels in 2021. He transitioned from performing to scriptwriting, contributing his vision for this year’s show.
Kapustka’s background influenced his creative direction. His Polish heritage played a significant role in shaping the narrative, as he recalls growing up in Chicago immersed in cultural traditions, including Polish dance. “The idea came after doing Scottish, English, and French accents in Revels shows for a few years,” he explained. “I thought: what about my heritage, Polish people?”
The script development process involved collaborative writing sessions, ensuring a rich blend of humor and local cultural references. About 30 performers will participate in this year’s show, marking a resurgence in cast involvement following a dip during the pandemic.
Executive Director Darren Kelly highlighted the importance of community support in sustaining the organization. Recent increases in grant funding from sources like the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District have allowed the Revels to pay professional artists and enhance the overall production quality. “Most Revels organizations around the country have paid executive directors and staff,” Kelly noted. “I want the money to go right back into professional artists’ hands.”
The Revels shows are known for their audience participation, culminating in traditional sing-alongs and dances that celebrate community spirit. Kelly emphasized the unique opportunity for locals to witness a professional performance featuring their friends and neighbors. “This is one of the few chances to see your friends and neighbors put on a professional show,” he stated.
In addition to the Revels performance, Boulder County’s holiday calendar is filled with various events suitable for all ages. Below are some highlights:
Upcoming Holiday Events in Boulder County
1. **St. Nick on the Bricks**: Children can meet Santa in downtown Boulder. Free visits are available from 11 a.m. on November 28 and Saturdays through December 13 at the Downtown Boulder Visitor Information Center.
2. **Gingerbread Tea**: Enjoy a holiday-themed tea with live jazz music and cookie decorating for children at St. Julien, running noon on Sundays through December 21. Prices range from $29 to $49.
3. **Lapome — A Very Django Holiday Show**: This Denver-based group will perform a unique blend of holiday music at the Chautauqua Community House on December 7, with tickets priced at $31.50.
4. **Winterfest**: This annual celebration at Chautauqua Park features food, drinks, live music, and family-friendly activities on December 12 and 13. Tickets are available for $27 to $36.
5. **CU Holiday Festival**: Experience a festive concert featuring student choirs and orchestras from December 5 to 7 at Macky Auditorium. Ticket prices range from $25 to $80.
6. **Holiday SpecTAPular**: Rocky Mountain Rhythm presents an evening of holiday entertainment on December 5 and 6, with tickets priced between $28 and $33.
7. **The Nutcracker**: Centennial State Ballet will present Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet at the Longmont Performing Arts Center on December 19 and 20, with tickets ranging from $18 to $29.
From theater productions to festive concerts, Boulder County offers a rich array of holiday experiences that cater to diverse tastes. Residents and visitors alike can find joy in the season’s celebrations, making it a memorable time for all.