The Big ToDo: Editor's Note December 2015
One of the biggest reasons my husband and I returned to Columbus is for the numerous opportunities it offers our children to be engaged in the arts. Many people in Columbus have worked hard for decades to foster a community where young people are encouraged to be involved in multiple areas of the fine arts. Nothing makes an audience happier than seeing young local talent flourish before our eyes. Every arts organization in town works tirelessly to make sure Columbus' youth have access to great programs with some of the best educational training in the South. No matter which artistic medium a child may choose, Columbus offers quality venues to develop and encourage talent as it grows.
The holiday season is one of the best times of the year to witness local talent on stage. December offers many events for families to enjoy together, and almost all of them feature locals in one way or another. This year's Nutcracker production by the Columbus Ballet is no exception. It is full of dancers of all ages from our community, and even the Sugar Plum Fairy is a Columbus native. This month, I sat down with Lisa Carter, director of the Columbus Ballet and CSU's Dance Conservatory, to hear how she puts together this holiday tradition every year, as well as about her experience working with young local talent downtown.
The Springer has a long history of nurturing Columbus youth and encouraging them onto the stage. December's production of "Beauty and the Beast" at the Springer this month boasts a cast consisting mostly of Chattahoochee Valley residents. The lead role of Belle is being played by a young actress from Harris County, and Phenix City native Shane Hall will direct the show.
If you're looking for something in the Christmas spirit, Cantus Christmas is a must-see. The concert features local professional singers and tells the Christmas story through musical selections sung in English. Nothing says Christmas in Columbus like this concert, which has become a tradition for so many families. This year's concert program boasts a string quartet, a large variety of compositional styles and features several arrangements by its director Bill Bullock. Get tickets early as this event usually sells out.
Take some time amidst the hustle and bustle of the season to support these efforts and enjoy a show.
This story was originally published November 26, 2015 at 12:00 AM with the headline "The Big ToDo: Editor's Note December 2015 ."