There is a richness to the arts offering in St. Louis during the Holidays.  It's really a treasure.  While natives may take it for granted, it's not so in other towns.  The obligatory concert here and there, and maybe a holiday-themed show or two are standard fare.  But in our 'Lou, arts organizations pull out all the stops and give us a festive feast!

I admit, I am a big fan of Dickens.  Though Pickwick is my favorite, A Chrismas Carol is as good a way as any to get into the spirit.  We went to see it at the Fox last night and it was a really nice performance.  I think, though, that my preference is still the play version.  But the story, with carols incorporated, was a wonderful way to get in the spirit.  "Scrooge" played for humor which was really fun to see, giving this version a lightheartedness that I think Dickens needs to truly be appreciated.  He was, after all, the ultimate Victorian smart-ass.

Handel's Messiah is on tap this weekend at Powell Hall.  Anyone who wants to see it done right needs to get on down to the SLSO and catch it.  While it's not something I'm personally fond of, the SLSO production is a sight to see.  It's one of those things you should see at least once in your life.  There is power and majesty to spare in Handel's marvelous music which the musicians give a luster all their own.  If you're going to see it, see it this weekend.

Another nugget is the spectacular Holiday Brass concert coming up next week.  The sounds of the best brass players in the city, including the SLSO's own Principal Trumpet Susan Slaughter, ringing through the gothic rafters of the Cathedral is an incredible experience. 

There's more merriment to be had, use ArtsZipper to find all the holdiay nooks and crannies.  Like Blind Boys of Alabama at the Sheldon, or the Nutcracker at the Touhill, Erin Bode's Holiday concert at Mad Art (she was just at the Sheldon with David Halen, it was great!) or A Christmas Story at the Rep.  And if you're really feeling spontaneous, drop in on one of the local high school productions, choir concerts abound.