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The board and staff of Austin Area Arts have announced a change of plans with the final live performance at the Historic Paramount Theatre before the facility closes for renovation and expansion.

The upcoming holiday presentation of “Who Brought the Humbug?” scheduled for 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 19, will now offer free admission with no tickets required, first come, first served.

Free will donations are encouraged at the door for those attending.

The decision was made to offer this performance free to the public as a thank you gesture for all the community has done over the years to support the Paramount Theatre, bringing it to this critical juncture of renovation and expansion.

“Consider this our gift to the community for many years of nurturing the Paramount Theatre into the cultural gem and iconic destination that it has become for many,” said Thomas Robbins, the new executive director of Austin Area Arts. “Come and enjoy this live performance with our compliments, fun for the whole family, as an expression of the organization’s gratitude and a celebration of what’s to come.”

Ricci Milan and the crew at Rhythm Street Movement bring the experience of “Who Brought the Humbug?” to life. 

It’s a holiday spectacular jam-packed with high-energy music, Broadway-style theatrics, and out-of-this-world tap dancing. It’s a wildly-creative, interactive, holiday show the whole family can enjoy. The cast includes an eight-piece band with vocals  and six tap dancers.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. For more information, visit austinareaarts.org.