Illustration of carolers with songbooks and lanterns on church steps in the snow (Two Nutcrackers – New Jersey Youth Symphony)
Christmas Shows

Two Nutcrackers – New Jersey Youth Symphony

Audiences experience two distinct musical journeys inspired by the classic holiday story, contrasting Tchaikovsky's "The Nutcracker Suite" with Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn's vibrant jazz reimagining. The performance opens with orchestral selections by Coleridge-Taylor, Rachmaninoff, and Humperdinck. The program brings together performances by youth symphony, youth orchestra, and jazz orchestra ensembles.

Sun, Dec 13, 2026 Free tickets.

Plan Your Visit

Hours

Doors: 1 PM; show: 2:00 pm–3:30 pm.

Ages

All ages (children 2 and under admitted free with a complimentary ticket from the Box Office)

Neighborhood

Downtown Rahway

Location

UCPAC Main Stage · 1601 Irving St, Rahway, NJ 07065 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Families and holiday music lovers

Vibe

Festive and musical

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

Low

Tips & Advice

  • Reserve free tickets in advance so your party has tickets for the concert.
  • If you are attending with a group of seven or more, request a group reservation.
  • Arrive with enough time to get seated before the performance begins.
  • Listen for the contrast between the classical and jazz interpretations of The Nutcracker Suite.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Tickets are free to reserve.
  • Groups of 7 or more can request a group reservation.
  • The City of Rahway offers Dinner & Show deals.

Links & Contact

Run by New Jersey Youth Symphony

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What music is featured in Two Nutcrackers?

The concert contrasts Tchaikovsky’s classical Nutcracker Suite with Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn’s jazz reimagining.

Which performers take part?

The NJYS Youth Orchestra, NJYS Jazz Orchestra and NJYS Youth Symphony perform.

What does the concert open with?

The NJYS Youth Orchestra opens with works by Coleridge-Taylor, Rachmaninoff, Humperdinck and others.

Are tickets available to reserve?

Yes. Free tickets can be reserved.

Can a group reserve tickets together?

Groups of seven or more can request a group reservation.

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Contributors & Updates

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