The holiday season is built on small generational rituals, whether it be a Christmas tree in your living room, lighting the kinara for Kwanzaa, gathering around the Advent candles, or even just watching It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) all day long on the 25th.
For the Albert family, stepping inside the Renaissance Theatre is the tradition that signals the season has officially begun. Cody and Felicia Albert both grew up in Shelby. After moving away for a time, they returned to Richland County to raise their three children in the community they’ve always considered home.
“I work in marketing at OhioHealth, and outside of work we spend a lot of time looking for fun events for our kids. The Renaissance has played a big part in that,” Cody Albert said.
Like many families with young children, the Alberts have been building new traditions as their kids get older. The Renaissance has easily entered the rotation.
Across generations, child-like wonder persists
Inside the auditorium, it’s easy to be distracted by the theatre itself. The grandeur of the architecture alone makes the experience feel special.
“My first experience [at the Ren] was Sesame Street Live. I still remember walking in and being amazed by the theatre. As a kid the building felt magical. It is fun to watch our kids have the same reaction to the magic each time we visit,” Albert said.
New artistic details seem to emerge in the wallpaper each time a patron looks closely. Even the scent of fresh popcorn can bring back memories of time spent in the velvet cushions years before.
The Ren doesn’t need to feel formal, and kids don’t have to sit perfectly still. According to Albert, the environment is intended to feel welcome, warm, and family-friendly.
“As parents of young children we were nervous to bring them to a show. Would they sit still, would they cry? But we have found the Ren to be welcoming and accommodating for our kids. One thing that people sometimes misunderstand is that Holiday Pops or any symphony performance at the Ren is not formal or intimidating,”
“Families should feel welcomed. Wear what feels comfortable. We always try to get seats in the balcony so our kids can see all of the talented folks on stage. Kids can enjoy the music and the lights,” Albert said.
Attending one show can quickly turn into tradition. That’s exactly what happened with their family, all starting with The Nutcracker.
“Both of our girls love getting dressed up, getting popcorn and taking in the show together. It has become something they look forward to each year,” Albert said.
The arts help foster a healthy community
In addition to his position at OhioHealth, Cody also serves on the Renaissance’s board, giving him a front row seat to the impact it has on the community.
Beyond the performances, the Ren offers a chance to slow down and enjoy the company of family, friends, and community members in a beloved environment, with familiar shows and tunes.
“Every year during the holidays you can really see the mission come to life as thousands of people walk through the doors and leave inspired and uplifted,” Albert said.
Now is the time to make plans to attend the Renaissance’s December shows, and start a tradition of your own. Holiday programming kicks off on December 6th with the Richland Academy of the Arts presenting The Nutcracker.
To view the entirety of upcoming events and pick your tickets, visit their events calendar.
“When local organizations like the Ren take part in the season it brings people into shared spaces, creates memories and gives families something positive to look forward to,” Albert said.
