10 great holiday shows that aren’t “The Nutcracker” or “A Christmas Carol”

All of Colorado Ballet’s “Nutcracker” performances are sold out — as expected. And Denver Center’s “A Christmas Carol,” while the region’s best production, is deeply familiar to most audiences. So, why not try something new this holiday season?

That doesn’t necessarily mean a radical reinterpretation of a classic, but rather a holiday show that goes a bit outside the icons of the genre — or maybe even provides a sterling example thereof.

Here are 10 shows to check out. See much more at denverpost.com/things-to-do.

“Granny Dances to a Holiday Drum”

If you’ve only heard of, but never seen, this long-running and deeply personal holiday show by Cleo Parker Robinson Dance, you’re missing one of Denver’s most culturally treasured ornaments. This year’s 31st annual run arrives during the nonprofit’s 52nd season, and appropriately the music, dance and spoken-word show continues to evolve with diverse performers and new on-stage tales.

Various shows, including matinees, Dec. 10-18, at Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Theatre, 119 Park Ave. West in Denver. A free, 45-minute preview takes place Tuesday, Dec. 6, at the Aurora Fox Theatre. Tickets: $30-$45. cleoparkerrobinsondance.org

“Amahl and the Night Visitors”

Amahl and the Night Visitors tells the story of “a magic star, a shepherd boy, and how unselfish love can work miracles.” Rendered with a full orchestra, this show is a rare, family-friendly opera.

Dec. 11 at Colorado Springs’ Armstrong Hall; Dec. 13-14 at Boulder’s First United Methodist Hall; and Dec. 16-18 at Trinity United Methodist Church in Denver. Tickets: $12-$42. centralcityopera.org

“Santa’s Big Red Sack”

Another local, very un-“Nutcracker” tradition is this comedic show full of “nonstop sketch comedy, music and technology bursting at the seams,” according to producers. It’s celebrating its 20th year, so expect some surprises and returning-favorite bits.

Thursday, Dec. 1-Dec. 24 at The People’s Building, 9995 E. Colfax Ave. in Aurora. Tickets: $15-$29.50. rattlebrain.vbotickets.com/events

“Haul Out the Jolly”

Denver Gay Men’s chorus mixes pop and traditional with “Haul Out the Holly,” which finds choral warmth in Bach’s “Jauchzet, frohlocket,” but also “Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy” and “The Chanukah Song (We Are Lights),” gospel such as “Go Tell It on the Mountain,” and more, producers said.

Thursday, Dec. 1-Saturday, Dec. 3 at Central Presbyterian Church; Dec. 9 at Boulder’s First United Methodist Church; and Dec. 8 at St. Andrew United Methodist Church in Highlands Ranch. An encore streaming takes place Dec. 17. Tickets: $20-$30. denverchoruses.org

“Wintersong”

For a more secular, though still spiritual, show, try Colorado Vocal Arts Ensemble’s “Wintersong: A Celebration of the Season.” It combines music and spoken word by candlelight, touching upon both Medieval and modern forms with work by Hieronymus Praetorius, Errollyn Wallens, Melissa Dunphy, Joanna Marsh and Bob Chilcott.

Dec. 16-17 at Grace & St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 601 N. Tejon St. in Colorado Springs. Admission is free, but registration is required at cvae.org. Donations are accepted at the door.