The Midland Theatre, 36 N. Park Place, will usher in the holiday season with a full schedule of special events.

Holiday decorations were added to the theatre this weekend, courtesy of John Edward Price.

"It's full of poinsettias and garlands and trees with presents," said Midland's executive director Mike Morris.

He expects large crowds this year, after last year's slate of holiday events drew 5,902 patrons.

Festivities will kick off Thanksgiving weekend as the Central Ohio Youth Ballet presents four performances of "The Nutcracker." This year marks the 15th anniversary of the COYB production, and its eighth year at the Midland.

"Every year, they add a bit of scenery or a bit of costume or a twist to the storyline," Morris said. "It's always interesting to see how they can take the same basic story and make it new and fresh and interesting year in and year out."

Nearly 60 dancers from studios in Licking and surrounding counties began rehearsing in September. The lead of Clara will be shared by Rebekah Morlock, a sophomore at Sheridan High School, and Karissa Phillips, a senior at Coschocton Christian School.

Newark-area resident Drew Holderman will play as Prince. Drosselmeyer is played by retired Newark City Schools teacher Dennis Kohler.

Performances will be held at 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 27; 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 28; and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 29. Tickets are $10, $12.50, $15 and $17.50.

The Newark High School Concert Choir and the Gran-ville High School Chamber Singers will join the Newark-Granville Symphony Orchestra for "A Joyful Noise" at 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6.

Cindy Wilkins, the orchestra's general manager, said about half of the 53 professional musicians in the orchestra are from Licking County and half are from surrounding areas.

Highlights of the holiday concert will include vocal solos by the New York-based soprano Alison Davy, as well as performances by Sarah Rhorer and Jennifer Whitehead of Opera Columbus.

Holiday classics such as Vivaldi's "Gloria" and "Sleigh Ride" will be featured, as well as opportunities for the audience to sing along.

The concert will follow Granville's Candlelight Walking Tour.

"This is a very nice family event," Wilkins said. "If you're looking for something to put you in the Christmas spirit, this would be perfect."

Tickets are $20 for adults and $5 for students. Patrons are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance.

"Elf" will be screened at 1 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12. Morris said Santa would be on hand for the holiday movie, and guests can enjoy a "good old-fashioned bake sale."

Tickets are $5 for adults and $4 for students and seniors.

"American Stars in Concert for the Holidays" will bring four former American Idol finalists to the Midland at 8 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20.

"To have these young artists singing our favorite holiday songs is really going to be special," Midland said.

Gina Glocksen, Alexis Grace, David Hernandez and Michael Sarver will present solo, duet and ensemble performances. Ticket prices are $20, $30, $40, $50 and $60.

To purchase tickets, call (740) 345-LIVE (5483) or stop by the box office from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. The box office opens one hour before show times. Or visit www.midlandtheatre.org.