Press

Story Book Characters Make Holiday Magic!

12/1/2010 2:52:30 PM

The Irving Arts Center celebrates a traditional story book Christmas during the 18th annual Holiday Open House. The free family event is 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 3 at the Irving Arts Center.

The holiday festival features art projects inspired by beloved children’s books including Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer, A Christmas Story, The Night Before Christmas and more! Families will also have the opportunity to take pictures with Santa Claus (bring your own camera), munch on delicious holiday cookies, create greeting cards with Irving Art Association and take a joy ride on the Polar Express – the Arts Center’s outdoor Christmas train.

The evening will also feature performances in Dupree Theater from Lone Star Youth Orchestra, University of Dallas Faculty Chamber Ensemble, Irving Chorale and Lamar Middle School Choir.

Holiday Open House will end with the announcement of 1st through 3rd place and Best of Show winners of the annual tree decorating competition in Carpenter Performance Hall. The 18th Annual Holiday Exhibition and Tree Decorating Competition features artwork from Irving ISD elementary students and 20 trees decorated by Irving Parent Teacher Organizations. The trees are voted on by local celebrities, and the winners receive a cash prize for their school. The community is also invited to vote for their favorite tree, Dec. 1-19 in the Main Gallery. The exhibition is on view Dec. 1-31.

The awards announcement starts at 7:15 p.m. and is immediately followed by a free performance of The Nutcracker featuring Ballet Ensemble of Texas. The Nutcracker is the full-length performance with an intermission. Seating is limited and doors open at 7 p.m.

The Arts Center celebrates a new cultural theme every year. Past Holiday Open House themes include Celebrating the Harlem Renaissance, a Celtic Christmas, a Cajun Christmas, Russian Holidays, a 60s Christmas and more.

For more information visit www.IrvingArtsCenter.com or call (972) 252-7558. The Arts Center is located at 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd, Irving, TX 75062.