Bank Newport City Center Winter Programming Begins, Dr. Seuss’ How the “The Grinch” Stole Christmas! The Musical Returns to PPAC

PROVIDENCE, RI– Mayor Brett P. Smiley will today announce the start of this year’s winter programming at the Bank Newport City Center and will be joined by “The Grinch” as he begins a week’s worth of shows at Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC) to kick off the holiday season. 

“It’s always a good time of year to visit Providence, but I am particularly excited about the many fun and exciting things we are hosting this holiday season,” said Mayor Brett Smiley, “Whether you are coming for the tree lighting or to enjoy the world-class plays that we host regularly at PPAC and Trinity, Providence is a standout holiday destination this year. There’s truly something for everyone.” 

The Bank Newport City Center and The Providence Rink will begin its winter programming on Friday, December 1, 2023. Guests can enjoy ice skating 10:00AM to 10:00PM daily until early March 2024, weather permitting. Ice bumper cars will be available Monday-Friday from 4:00PM to 8:00PM and weekends from 10:00AM through 2:00PM. Visitors are welcome to bring their skates or have the option to rent a pair on-site. For more information regarding admission, times, and rental prices, visit  https://theprovidencerink.com/. 

“The kickoff to the holiday season is a great opportunity for residents and visitors to check out our popular downtown attractions. Enjoy the theater, support local businesses, dine in Providence’s renowned restaurants, or do all of it,” said Council President Rachel Miller. “The bright, beautiful lights and buzz of activity around city hall create a fun and festive environment for all ages to enjoy!” 

Providence Performing Arts Center, one of Providence’s world-class theatres, is proud to host Broadway’s number 1 holiday show Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical. This play returns for a series of ten performances from Tuesday, November 28, 2023, to Sunday, December 3, 2023. This year’s production will feature magnificent sets and costumes inspired by Dr. Seuss’ original illustrations, and classic songs like “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch.”  

“We think that Mayor Smiley will have a positive influence on The Grinch at the press conference, making The Grinch’s heart grow three sizes, “said P.J. Prokop, PPAC Marketing Director, and Caitlyn DiPompo, PPAC Marketing / PR Projects Manager. “We are pleased that The Grinch has chosen to bring ‘his’ show, Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical to PPAC this week. It’s the perfect way for all Whos, tall and small, to kick off the holiday season.” 

Additionally, this holiday season, GoProvidence has highlighted a fun-filled, three-day festival, which will include citywide events, all incorporating the theme of light. On Friday, December 1 there will be a tree lighting in front of City Hall, with live entertainment including the International Soul Brothers, Ballet RI, Santa and more. On Saturday, December 2, WaterFire will hold a basin lighting, holiday market and a visit by Santa. Throughout the weekend, there will be a multimedia installation and live ensemble performance presented by FirstWorks, and illuminated and activated art experiences by The Avenue Concept. For more information on these events or other winter programming, visit goprovidence.com.