Those looking for unusual theatrical fare will find it downtown in December. In addition to the usual “Nutcracker” ballet performances look for the following: SD Repertory Theatre • Through Dec. 11, Ion Theatre presents Tony Kushner’s not-to-be-missed Tony Award- and Pulitzer Prize-winning drama “Angels in America,” an epic in two parts — “Millennium Approaches” and “Perestroika,” Lyceum Space, 79 Horton Plaza, $36, www.lyceumevents.org or (619) 544-1000. • Teatro Mascara Magica presents the newest in its award-winning series titled “La Pastorela de Valor,” Mexican-inspired Christmas musicals, which follow the shepherds’ trek to Bethlehem, pitting them against Lucifer’s evil minions, saved by Michael the Archangel, Dec. 15-24, $15, www.lyceumevents.org or (619) 544-1000. Copley Symphony Hall • San Diego Symphony presents Ludwig van Beethoven’s fabulous Ninth (Choral) Symphony with its magnificent “Ode to Joy.” Jahja Ling conducts orchestra and chorus 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 9 and 10 and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11. • Conducted by Matthew Garbutt with special guests Mariachi Champana Nevin, San Diego Master Chorale, and San Diego Children’s Choir, San Diego Symphony plays “Holiday Pops” at 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16, 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 18. Copley Symphony Hall, 1245 Seventh Ave., $20-$85, www.sandiegosymphony.org or (619) 239-0804 Civic Theatre For five performances only, Broadway San Diego presents “Riverdance,” the amazing Irish dance show, Dec. 2-4, San Diego Civic Theatre, 202 C St., ticket prices vary, www.ticketmaster.com Old Globe Through Dec. 31, The Old Globe presents the classic “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” directed by James Vasquez and back for its 14th year at The Old Globe Theatre, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, $24-$57, www.theoldglobe.org or (619) 23-GLOBE.
