Arizona: Phoenix: 2009: December

Phoenix, Arizona Events December 2009 Calendar

This calendar of events for Phoenix, Arizona and nearby communities in November 2009 has been produced to assist you in making travel and activity arrangements.

This calendar has been produced to assist with travel arrangements or local activities. It is an information guide only and does not constitute a recommendation. Dates for these Arizona events were correct at time of publication. Since dates are occasionally changed, please confirm them in advance. Updates, additions and corrections to any Phoenix, AZ events are made at www.ArizonaGuide.com.

December 2009 Phoenix, Arizona Event Listings

Phoenix-area Activities throughout December 2009

Through January 24, 2010  SCOTTSDALE: Unexpected Wegman: From the Collection of the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art –an exhibition of forty-five William Wegman works, exhibition builds on the artist’s wide recognition for his photographic portraits of Weimaraner dogs, an array of other whimsically portrayed subjects in a diverse range of media and forms—from prints, to flipbooks, to video, www.smoca.org

For additional tourism information and brochures, contact:

The Arizona Office of Tourism
2702 N. Third St., Suite 4015
Phoenix, Arizona 85004

Arizona Chamber of
Commerce & Convention Bureaus

YouTube Video of Arizona Road Trip

A little mini-vacation to NE Arizona, on the Navajo/Hopi reservation. The trip started at the invitation of Navajo people near Chinle, then blossomed from there. Visits included Canyon de Chelly, Arizona. Video courtesy to YouTube and Arizona Office of Tourism. Watch more Arizona Travel videos.

Governor Brewer Reminds Travelers of Passport Requirement

PHOENIX – Arizona Governor Jan Brewer reminds Arizona citizens of the deadline for the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI). Beginning Monday, June 1, 2009, all U.S. and Canadian citizens will be required to present a passport or another WHTI compliant document to enter and re-enter the United States by land or sea from Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean and Bermuda.

“Knowing what documents are required and having them ready when you return home will help streamline the entry process and ensure your return to the U.S. is as smooth as possible.” For Arizona, this federal initiative will primarily impact residents and visitors traveling to and from Mexico. Beginning June 1, 2009, the Arizona driver’s license and/or Arizona Identification Card will not be recognized as a valid credential for entry or re-entry into the United States.

U.S. citizens returning home from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean or Bermuda, by land or sea, will be required to present one of the following travel documents: A passport issued by the U.S. Government, a passport card (PassCard), a valid trusted traveler program card (FAST, NEXUS, or SENTRI) or a Military ID with official travel orders. U.S. citizen children under the age of 16 will be able to present the original or copy of their birth certificate, or other proof of U.S. citizenship such as a naturalization certificate or citizenship card.

The Arizona Department of Transportation’s Tucson and Safford districts will be placing temporary variable message signs at their port of entries, which include Lukeville, Nogales, Sasabe, Douglas, San Luis and Naco, four days prior to June 1 and one week after to remind travelers of the new initiative. Information about requirements for special groups traveling abroad can be found at U.S. Customs and Border Protection: http://www.getyouhome.gov/html/lang_eng/eng_sa.html

December 5, 2009

Phoenix Children’s Chorus 25th Anniversary Holiday Concert inspiring the season with holiday songs from around the world. The Phoenix Children’s Chorus brings an array of beautiful carols and songs from around the globe as it joins the world in celebrating the holiday season.  From the delicate Nino Lindo, a Venezuelan carol, and Hope For Resolution, an African Freedom song to the familiar traditional carols of I saw Three Ships and The Little Drummer Boy, this concert showcases an inspiring selection of songs to celebrate the season. This concert marks the 25th anniversary of the Phoenix Children’s Chorus celebrating the holidays by joining together in song.  As part of the celebrations, this special concert includes the adventurous Desert Echoes Flute Project appearing as guest artists on the program.  The Desert Echoes Flute Project will perform a set of holiday songs for flute as well as accompany the Chorus on the beautiful selection, German Lullaby, with its pure tones resonating through the hall.  Selections will be sung by all three groups of the Phoenix Children’s Chorus including the Prep, Cadet and Concert choirs, as well as several pieces performed by the entire 200 member roster.  The concert will be led by Artistic Director Ron Carpenter. The 25th Anniversary Holiday Concert will be held December 5, 2009 at 2:00 and 7:00 pm in St. Agnes Church, 1954 N 24th St, (McDowell & 24th St).  Tickets are $10/$17.50/$20 and available by calling (602) 534-3788. In addition to the Holiday concert, the Phoenix Children’s Chorus will be holding a Silent Auction 12:00 noon to 6:30 pm (Concert ticket not required to attend auction) Auction items include trips, resort packages, jewelry, art, gift cards & family entertainment, with proceeds benefiting the Chorus’ and its cultural exchange tour to China in the Spring of 2010. With members ranging from eight to eighteen years of age, the Phoenix Children’s Chorus has grown from a small organization of just 35 members, to its current program comprised of four choirs, three accompanists and four directors with over 220 children participating in performances and guest appearances.  The choirs include Prep, Cadet, Concert and Encore where choristers learn the basic elements of vocal technique, performance and musicianship skills. The Chorus’ ongoing mission is to provide a comprehensive choral music education in a positive learning environment in order to foster team effort, self-discipline and self esteem for young people in Phoenix. Visit the Phoenix Children’s Chorus website at www.phoenixchildrenschorus.org or call 602-534-3788.

Through December 6, 2009

Arizona Theatre Company presents George Is Dead, a new comedy by acclaimed writer and director Elaine May. Featuring Julia Brothers, Academy Award nominee Don Murray, and Emmy and Golden Globe winner Marlo Thomas, George is Dead plays in Phoenix at the Herberger Theater Center from November 12 through December 6. Arizona Theatre Company's season sponsors are I. Michael and Beth Kasser and the Arizona Commission on the Arts. Tickets range from $26-$50 depending on date and section choice and are available at www.arizonatheatre.org or by calling the box office at (520) 622-2823. More on ATC. Continue reading about George Is Dead.

Through December 27

TEMPE: Junie B. Jones  and the … World Premiere!, Childsplay presents “Junie B in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells!”
On stage for the Holidays. Childsplay, Arizona’s professional theatre company for young audiences and families, is delighted to present the world premiere of Junie B in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells! at the Tempe Center for the Arts for the holidays. Adapted from Barbara Park’s series of books about Junie B. Jones, First Grader, this brand-new play by Allison Gregory opens on November 21 and runs through December 27.  Directed by Childsplay Artistic Director and Founder David Saar, this production features many of Childsplay’s most popular actors, notably Katie McFadzen as Junie B.Jones. There will be a preview performance, with general admission discount tickets available, on November 15.  The show is recommended for young people age five and above and their families. Tickets: Target Storybook Preview (Nov. 15) – all tickets $12 general admission. All other performances:  Adults -- $25. Children, Students, Seniors -- $20. Box office 480-350-2822 (press 0 for box office) or visit www.childsplayaz.org/boxoffice

Phoenix, AZ Events Day by Day

Friday, December 4, 2009

MESA: Disney’s Imagination Movers Performing Live at Mesa Arts Center. Tickets on Sale Saturday, August 15. Mesa, AZ- August 2009- Disney’s Imagination Movers, fast-rising stars on the national kids music scene, bring their thrilling performance to Mesa Arts Center Friday, December 4, at 7:30 p.m. Combining pop music, education, and fun games, the Imagination Movers thrill family audiences with their interactive shows. Tickets are $30 and are available on Saturday, August 15, at 10 a.m. through the Mesa Arts Center Box Office at mesaartscenter.com or by calling 480-644-6500. Members of the Movers originally started writing music for their own children, and now, clad in their trademark blue coveralls, they share their musical creations with audiences, creating thousands of new fans with every show. Living by the motto “reach high, think big, work hard, and have fun!”, the Movers teach high-energy dances, play games with the audiences, and make music on their one-of-a-kind, trashcan drum set.  Kids and parents help perform new kids classics like “Shakable You,” “The Medicine Song,” “What’s in the Fridge?” and “I Want My Mommy (Time for Bed).” Creating rock and pop music for parents and kids to enjoy together, the Imagination Movers are now the soundtrack to many families’ lives, thanks to their winning blend of rock ‘n’ roll energy, slapstick comedy, and parental wisdom. A must-see for adults and kids alike, Imagination Movers is a brilliant idea for a family night out! For more information, visit www.mesaartscenter.com. One East Main Street | Mesa | 480-644-6500.

Scottsdale, AZ – Registration forms deadline for the 12th Annual Fiesta Bowl Youth Football Clinic presented by NCAA Football to be held at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 2, at the Glendale Youth Sports Complex. Local youth, ages 9 through 14, are invited to attend this free, non-contact instructional football clinic. Only the first 300 applicants will be accepted for this event and spaces fill up fast.The Fiesta Bowl Youth Football Clinic annually provides kids with first-class football instruction provided by the Valley’s best coaches and professional trainers. Not only do the participants practice fundamental skills, but they also take away valuable life lessons from the clinic as well.  The kids are taught the importance of perseverance, discipline and determination, all of which are necessary to achieve their maximum potential both on and off the field. To download a registration form or for more information on the Fiesta Bowl Youth Football Clinic, please visit the Youth Football Clinic webpage found under the events tab on www.fiestabowl.org.

Saturday, December 5, 2009

19th Annual Nutcracker Party. Holiday Tradition Benefits Ballet Arizona Entertains More Than 400 Valley Families. About 400 families will enjoy a unique Valley holiday tradition at the Camelback Inn on December 5, 2009, when the Ballet Arizona Esprit de Corps presents the 19th Annual Nutcracker Party. This event features a festive lunch, holiday carolers, a unique shopping village, children’s art and activity stations, and excerpts of The Nutcracker performed by about 30 School of Ballet Arizona students and two Ballet Arizona dancers. Since the 1990 inception of the event, guests were provided a sneak peek of Ballet Arizona’s production of The Nutcracker, and its popularity has soared. Last year, nearly 800 people were in attendance. Proceeds from the Nutcracker Party benefit Ballet Arizona’s community outreach efforts and fund scholarships for economically challenged, talented young dancers to attend The School of Ballet Arizona. The 19th Annual Nutcracker Party presented by Ballet Arizona Esprit de Corps, 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Arizona Ballroom, Camelback Inn, Phoenix, Arizona event. The event benefits Ballet Arizona’s community outreach and The School of Ballet Arizona. $75 adults; $40 children if purchased by Nov. 1 ($85 adults; $50 children after Nov. 1). www.balletaz.org

Saturday, December 11-27, 2009

Phoenix: The Nutcracker BALLET ARIZONA has announced its 2009-2010 season, marking the 24th year as Arizona’s nationally-acclaimed professional ballet company, and recognizing Ib Andersen’s 10th year as Artistic Director. This upcoming season of six remarkable programs, with sumptuous classics, returning favorites, and Arizona premieres, will demonstrate the world-class virtuosity and artistry of Ballet Arizona’s dancers. A highlight of the season will be a World Premiere by Mr. Andersen; to debut at the Orpheum Theatre, and be performed at The Kennedy Center in June 2010. Join us for what is sure to be a season full of excitement and splendor! 2009/10 is Artistic Director Ib Andersen’s 10 year Anniversary! Swan Lake – Nov 5-8. The Nutcracker – Dec 11-27. The Sleeping Beauty (Ballet Arizona Premiere!) – Feb 11-14. Classic Innovations – Mar 26-28. Ib Andersen’s PLAY – May 14-16. Balanchine Classics – Jun 11-13. 3645 E. Indian School Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85018. Phone: 602-343-6517. www.balletaz.org

Sunday, December 12-13, 2009

MESA: Magic of the American Southwest with Free Fall Festivals. Mesa Arts and Culture Presents Mesa Storytelling Festival, Dia de los Muertos, the Holiday Art & Music Festival, and MACFest. Set among the fiery sunsets of the Sonoran Desert, the city of Mesa is known for its amazing weather, quaint dining, and ample shopping opportunities in a thriving arts district. Mesa Arts and Culture’s fall festivals provide the perfect entertainment for the entire family during a relaxing visit to Arizona. Featured by Cookie Magazine on Good Morning America as one of the top fall festivals in the nation, The Mesa Storytelling Festival is fun for the entire family. Join storytellers Bobby Norfolk, Motoko, Mary Gay Ducey, and Dovie Thomason as they take part in the Valley’s largest storytelling event celebrating the art of storytelling, a love of reading, and the power of the imagination October 23- 24 at Mesa Arts Center. The featured tellers will appear indoors on the beautiful stages at Mesa Arts Center. Mesa Arts Center hosts the third annual Dia de los Muertos Festival in conjunction with the Consulate General of Mexico in Phoenix, Friends of Mexican Art, and the Mesa Association of Hispanic Citizens. Dia de Los Muertos is a community celebration honoring the memory of departed loved ones. The event is complete with a community altar, live music and performances, food, and a Mercado featuring an assortment of Day of the Dead merchandise, jewelry, arts and crafts, children’s activities, entertainment, and more. The festival is from October 31- November 1. Don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind cultural festival. This season, avoid lines at crowded shopping centers and do your holiday shopping outdoors on the beautiful Mesa Arts Center campus. The annual Holiday Art & Music Festival will feature original works of art for sale by several local and national artists, live entertainment on two stages, artist demonstrations in glassblowing, metals, and ceramics, children’s activities, and a variety of food from featured local restaurants. Come to Mesa Arts Center December 12- 13 to kick off the holiday season at this fun-filled arts festival. Mesa Arts and Culture Festival (MACFest) is a free weekly event featuring unique artist creations, music, and fun for the whole family in downtown Mesa.  The addition of a farmer’s market is planned to start Saturday, October 24. The festival takes place every Saturday, October 3 - April 24 (excluding December 26 and January 2) on Main and Macdonald Streets. Event Details Holiday Art & Music Festival- FREE. December 12-13 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. MACFest- FREE. Every Saturday, October 3 - April 24 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. No Festival on December 26 or January 2

ABOUT MESA ARTS CENTER: Mesa Arts Center has received numerous awards and accolades for its programs and outstanding new facilities. Arizona's largest arts campus is home to four theaters, five art galleries and fourteen art studios. Guests, patrons and students come to Mesa Arts Center to enjoy the finest live entertainment and performing arts performances, world-class visual art exhibitions, and outstanding arts education classes. The facility is an architectural showpiece and a destination for visitors to the Phoenix area. The Mesa Arts Center mission is to inspire people through impacting and engaging experiences that are diverse, accessible, and relevant; and that enhance the quality of life and vitality of the region. For more information, visit www.mesaartscenter.com. One East Main Street | Mesa | 480-644-6500.

Phoenix | Calendar of Events Index

For additional tourism information and brochures, contact:

The Arizona Office of Tourism

2702 N. Third St., Suite 4015

Phoenix, Arizona 85004

Phone: 602/542-8687 or 1-800-842-8257

Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Convention Bureaus

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