A Holiday Favorite Comes to Cincinnati

The holiday season has officially come to Cincinnati and Kings Ford. And with it comes Christmas trees, wreaths with red ribbons, candles in the window, and lights on our houses. There will be gatherings of families, friends and loved ones, and the inevitability of overindulgence. And let’s not forget the giving of gifts and the shopping needs that predate it.

For many, the holiday season can be a complicated time. There are countless reasons for this, ranging from loneliness to the overwhelming stress that can come with the onslaught of holiday demands. And it’s with that in mind, that it becomes all the more important to embrace the simple joys of the season, whatever those joys (within the context of our individual lifestyles) may be.

This December, Cincinnati’s own Taft Theatre plays host to one of those simple joys, one that’s part of our collective and cultural consciousness. No, we’re not talking about A Christmas Carol (sorry Charles Dickens), we’re talking about A Charlie Brown Christmas. For anyone interested in checking it out, the best news is that you have multiple chances to do so between December 8th and the 15th.

A Charlie Brown Christmas

As far as televised holiday classics go, A Charlie Brown Christmas is held in equal esteem with Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman, and How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Other popular selections may have been introduced, but these four 1960s classics still tend to reign supreme. Considering their enduring appeal, it’s really no surprise that they’ve taken on new life and new meanings with each generation that embraces them. In the case of A Charlie Brown Christmas, it’s displayed by the comparable popularity of seasonal productions on stages across the U.S.

The Story

Charlie Brown is inexplicably sad at Christmastime but, through recognizing the true meaning and simple joys of the holiday season, regains his ability to enjoy it with his friends. Since 1965 A Charlie Brown Christmas has been a staple of televised holiday fare. It has garnered cultural adoration and has been awarded an Emmy as well as a Peabody Award. Simply put, it’s beloved – not just for the characters that are featured, but for its relatable themes, overall tone, and pacing.

With a jazz-inspired soundtrack provided by the Vince Guaraldi Trio, the music of A Charlie Brown Christmas evokes an immediate sense of nostalgia. Simultaneously festive, solemn, and even a bit melancholy, the music is juxtaposed against a story of childhood that is deceptively complex in its apparent simplicity. Then again, that’s a pretty accurate description of Charles Schultz’ ‘Peanuts’ comics in general.

The Taft Theatre

Located at 317 East 5th Street, the Taft Theatre has been one of downtown Cincinnati’s premier venues since its opening back in 1928. With the recent and respectful renovation of the rich Neo-classical and art deco architecture that makes the Taft Theatre a remnant of another time, it truly is the ‘Ultimate, Intimate Entertainment Experience’ in the tri-state area. If you haven’t attended an event at the Taft Theatre before, treat yourself. Interested? From venue information to seating charts and other FAQ’s, you can learn more about the Taft Theatre here.

Directions From the North

Take I-71 South to the 3rd St. exit.
Merge onto 3rd St.
Turn Right on Main St.
Turn Right on 5th St.

or

Take I-75 South to the 2nd St. exit.
Merge onto 2nd St.
Turn Left on Elm St.
Turn Right on 5th St.
From the South
Take I-71/75 North
Merge onto I-71 North as you cross the Ohio River
Exit onto 2nd St.
Turn Left on Elm St.
Turn Right on 5th St.

or

Take I-471 North towards Cincinnati
Take exit 6B to merge onto 6th St.
Turn Left on Sycamore St.
Turn Left on 5th St.

Parking is available in several pay lots neighboring the Taft Theatre.

Get Your Tickets Now

If you’re interested in enjoying this holiday fare, time is of the essence. A show this popular is bound to sell out quickly, so be sure to grab your tickets sooner rather than later! You can get yours right here.

“And the gang gathered around the tree; they began to sing. Charlie Brown heard them and came running back.”

If there’s one thing we gain from this beloved show, it’s the simple realization that small and simple things matter more this time of year. For Charlie Brown, learning to love Christmas comes with his friends gathered around an understated, left behind tree that no-one else wanted. Maybe we could all benefit from a reminder every now and again, and here’s your chance to do exactly that.