#5: Pedrito Martinez Group at Latino Arts.
Why? Because Martinez is a world class percussionist who plays classic Afro-Cuban  jazz in the tradition of Eddie Palmieri and other Latin greats. Because he’s one of the most sought-after players, and has shared the studio and stage with everyone from Sting to Edie Brickell to Milwaukee native Brian Lynch. And because Latino Arts knows how to host Latin music at its Walker’s Point area stage, leaving plenty of room for those who need to get up and move when the clave sets the rhythm.

 
#4: In Tandem’s Scrooge in Rouge at the 10th Street Theatre.
Why? Because Ricky Graham and Jefferson Turner’s take on the perennial Christmas classic doesn’t pull any punches, turning Dickens’ inspirational tale into an all-out, quick-change farce. The setup? A British music hall troupe performs A Christmas Carol, but when most of the company comes down with food poisoning (must have been the bubble & squeak), the show must go on with three actors playing all the roles. Milwaukee favorites Chris Flieller, Matt Daniels, Marcella Kearns and David Bonfiglio are up to the task.

#3: Ensemble Musical Offering at All Saints Cathedral and Wauwatosa Women’s Club.
Why? Because “Sleigh Ride” and “Jingle Bell Rock” are just fine for neighborhood caroling parties and background music at Target. But nothing sets the mood for the holidays like Baroque music. EMO’s Joan Parsley knows that, and so she and her terrific ensemble are offering a mélange of Bach and Vivaldi for a concert that celebrates the Baroque in all its glory. Two locations allow both East Siders and West Siders to share the joy.

#2: Robin Pleur at Turner Hall.
Why? Because Pleur’s annual “Festival Soiree” at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music was so popular that it outgrew the filigreed pastels of the WCM’s Bader Recital Hall, and has now taken over the noble earth tones of Turner Hall. As usual, Pleur will feature music for the season, as well as chansons that evoke the French ennui that blankets some of us 365 days a year. She’ll be joined by friends and musical associates like Juli Wood, Peter Roller, Connie Grauer, Kim Zick and Paul Cebar.


#1: Milwaukee Rep’s A Christmas Carol at the Pabst Theatre.
Why? Because some stories are so powerful and universal that they deserve to be revisited over and over. You may not have seen The Rep’s powerful adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic story last year or the year before, but checking in with Scrooge from time to time can reinvigorate the spirit – particularly in the season when spirit-trampling seems to be a common pastime. There are songs, ghosts, good humor and a powerful message in this communal celebration of the passing year and the years to come.


A Christmas Carol photo by Michael Brosilow