Highlands Ballet performs "A Charlie Brown Christmas" at Emory & Henry University, Emory, Virginia.
Highlands Ballet returns this holiday season with their original production of “A Charlie Brown Christmas” — a jazz ballet inspired by Charles Schulz’s timeless tale. Known for authentic and inventive interpretations of classic stories, the Highlands team delivers an uplifting, often hilarious holiday favorite infused with warmth, humor and heart.
Debuting in 2024 to sold-out performances for both school audiences and the public, this year’s staging brings back all the charm of last year’s hit while introducing new characters including Violet, Shermy, and Frieda. Presented at the McGlothlin Center for the Arts, the production offers a fun, family-friendly take on Schulz’s beloved story — complete with humor, life lessons and, of course, one precocious beagle who reminds us all of the challenges we face every day.
First broadcast in 1965, “A Charlie Brown Christmas” became an enduring part of America’s holiday tradition. Creator Charles Schulz, one of the most influential cartoonists of the 20th century, revolutionized the comic strip with his minimalist art, emotional honesty and witty reflections on the human condition — often voiced through the musings of children and a philosophical dog. Highlands Ballet channels these qualities into an original production featuring a cast of 40 dancers, new choreography and costumes, and a spirited musical compilation that will have audiences smiling, tapping their feet, and perhaps even dancing along.
As the story unfolds, Charlie Brown sets out to direct the school Christmas play, disheartened by the growing commercialism of the season. With guidance (and occasional bossiness) from Lucy, encouragement from Linus, and a forlorn little tree in need of love, Charlie learns that the true meaning of Christmas has nothing to do with glitter or gifts — it’s found in kindness, connection and community.
The ballet is performed Dec. 12 at 7 p.m. in the McGlothlin Center for the Arts on the Emory & Henry University campus, Emory, Virginia. Tickets are $6 for 12 and under; $14 for seniors and students 13 and older; $20 adults. Tickets are available at the door or at www.highlandsballet.org.
