After 60 years of performing George Balanchine’s “The Nutcracker,” the New York City Ballet have it down pat. (The shows continue through Jan. 3 at Lincoln Center Plaza, FYI.) But this year, we’re tweaking tradition. Byzantine Holiday Pop-Up Concerts On Fridays this month, hear Byzantine-era carols and hymns from the balcony above the Medieval Sculpture Hall. Check out the museum’s Neapolitan Christmas tree and crèche, too.
Dec. 12 & 19; 2, 4, 6 p.m. The title continues with “He’s a Very Naughty Boy,” which is redundant if you know that this is a musical comedy adaptation of “Monty Python’s Life of Brian,” by no less than the creators of “Spamalot.” Dec. 15-16 This 21+ show contains partial nudity, and we bet there isn’t another Christmas tradition that can make that claim. Reimagined with “erotic, sensual and opulent flair,” this Baroque-burlesque production will range from dance to opera to circus. Dec. 18-Jan. 4, 8 p.m.
Metropolitan Museum
Free with admission
Carnegie Hall
Tickets: $30 and up
XIV, 428 Lafayette St.
Tickets: $75-$175
On Stage: Go unconventional at these 3 holiday shows
Philip Van Nostrand
