(Joplin, MO) – Connect2Culture’s (C2C) December events bring an exciting lineup of holiday performances at the Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex (212 W. 7th Street). Get into the spirit of the season and learn more about each performance below!
Who Brought the Humbug?
Thursday, December 4 | 7:00 pm | Tickets: $50–$55 | Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex
Get ready for a high-energy holiday treat as Rhythm Street Movement presents Who Brought the Humbug?, an original production that transforms the stage into a holiday party like no other. At this ugly sweater bash, joyful singers, electrifying tap dancers, and high-energy musicians deliver a sleigh-full of swingin’ holiday mash-ups, from Frosty tap dancing to a groove to Santa rapping over horn-band funk. When two singers-turned-investigators uncover that someone brought a “HUMBUG” to the party, the hilarity takes off with beatboxing Grinch remixes, ‘90s nostalgia in “The Ghost of Parties Past,” and a can’t-miss audience dance-off during “Chairol of the Bells.”
Founded by Minneapolis-based artist Ricci Milan, Rhythm Street Movement specializes in creating theatrical experiences that combine music, dance, and storytelling in unexpected ways. Milan’s artistic journey includes performing with NBA halftime shows, Tokyo DisneySea, and creating the internationally acclaimed Buckets and Tap Shoes and Feet Don’t Fail Me Now!, which toured nationally and internationally and graced Broadway’s New Victory Theater in Times Square.
With Who Brought the Humbug?, Milan and his team deliver an interactive, funky holiday celebration filled with toe-tapping rhythms and an uplifting message of joy and togetherness for all ages.
This performance is part of the Curtains Up Series, which is made possible by Freeman Health System.
Learn more and get your tickets here.
Tomáseen Foley’s A Celtic Christmas
Saturday, December 13 | 7:00 pm | Tickets: $50–$55 | Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex
For nearly 30 years, Tomáseen Foley’s A Celtic Christmas has enchanted audiences nationwide with its joyful celebration of Irish traditions. Featuring a world-class ensemble of musicians, singers, and dancers from both sides of the Atlantic, this critically acclaimed production recreates the magic of the “Rambling House”—a cozy cottage in the west of Ireland where neighbors gathered on Christmas Eve for an evening of music, storytelling, and dance.
At the heart of the show is master storyteller Tomáseen Foley, weaving captivating tales from his birthplace in Teampall an Ghleanntáin. His warm, humorous, and moving stories transport audiences to a bygone era of community, connection, and Celtic artistry. Anchored by Foley’s storytelling, the evening unfolds with fiery traditional Irish music, high-energy step dancing, and hauntingly beautiful carols, filling the air with warmth and wonder.
The production features award-winning performers and internationally acclaimed artists who embody the rich traditions of Celtic culture. The music, played on traditional instruments like the fiddle, bodhrán, and uilleann pipes, pairs perfectly with dynamic choreography and heartfelt vocals, creating a multi-sensory journey into Ireland’s holiday heritage.
Audiences are invited to step into the cottage and become neighbors for the night—sharing laughter, song, and the enduring spirit of a Celtic Christmas. Whether you’re reconnecting with your roots or discovering these traditions for the first time, this heartwarming performance will leave you with a sense of joy, peace, and the true meaning of the season.
This performance is part of the Curtains Up Series, which is made possible by Freeman Health System.
Learn more and get your tickets here.
David Smith’s An Evening in Kringle City
Friday, December 19 | 6:30 pm | Tickets: $10–$12.50 for kids, $20–$25 for adults | Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex
An Evening in Kringle City brings the magic of Christmas to life with music, storytelling, and festive joy. Set in the heart of the North Pole’s “Kringle City,” this enchanting production invites audiences into Santa Claus’ world, where warmth and wonder abound—even in one of the world’s most inhospitable places. The show recreates the magic of Santa’s legendary toy workshop, where neighbors gather for laughter, song, and a heartwarming celebration of the season.
Audiences will experience a delightful mix of holiday classics and original storytelling as Santa shares his origins, sings songs, and answers long-held questions about his timeless legacy. Alongside Chief Elf Assistant Holly, Santa guides guests through an evening filled with music, laughter, and sentimental moments. This participatory experience culminates with a riveting Christmas story that renews faith in the season and leaves hearts full of peace and joy. Best for ages 6 and up.
At the center of this beloved production is David Michael Smith, whose portrayal of Santa Claus has inspired audiences for over 15 years. David’s journey as Santa began at the age of ten with his first public appearance in a fifth-grade choir concert. Since then, he has shared the spirit of Christmas at community events, holiday parades, and even in the NICU of Freeman Health System, where he captures priceless memories with newborns. With a career spanning radio, television, and education, David combines his artistic talents and heartfelt connection to audiences to bring Kringle City vividly to life.
This performance is part of the Curtains Up Series, which is made possible by Freeman Health System.
Learn more and get your tickets here.
About Connect2Culture:
Connect2Culture (C2C) is a not-for-profit arts organization founded in 2009 to enhance community through culture. Unlike any organization in the Joplin area, C2C is a respected community arts agency, a champion of the Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex, and a performing arts presenter. C2C strives to expand audience and resources needed to “ignite a passion for the arts, culture, and entertainment” in the Joplin area.
Reference:
Emily Frankoski, Executive Director
Connect2Culture
417.501.5550
emily@connect2culture.org
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