6 Things to Do in Pittsburgh This December
Step inside ‘The Scandinavian Home’ at The Frick Pittsburgh, or watch 'Clue' come alive on stage.
BEST BET
Hygge in the Gallery
Through Jan. 11 | The Frick Art Museum
The many pieces in The Scandinavian Home: Landscape and Lore are perfectly united in feeling — even though they’re almost completely dissonant in style and media. There are paintings, sculptures, tapestries and furniture in this exhibit; within each of those disciplines, there are even more varieties in style.
Yet they all sit perfectly together, ineffably capturing something instinctual about the spirit of this part of the world. To use perhaps the only Danish term I know: It’s all very hygge. The exhibit, which is open through Jan. 11, comes from the private collection of David and Susan Werner, aficionados of Scandinavian art for decades; in fact, they began gathering these works before Nordic art was widely recognized by the art community at large.
While many subjects, from folkloric figures to quiet home scenes, are represented in “The Scandinavian Home,” the interplay of light and landscape is a frequent subject. And while beautiful, snowy vistas are present, my favorite piece in the exhibition runs counter to that trope: Swedish painter Eugène Jansson’s “Bastugatan in the Evening” gazes from a working-class neighborhood at the sunset over an industrial cityscape.
If you didn’t know better, you’d swear you were looking at an image of Pittsburgh. “The Scandinavian Home” is the perfect exhibition for the winter months; you’ll have visions of it jump to mind anytime the sunlight cascades over the snow. — Sean Collier
SHOW
“Yippee Ki Yay: The Parody Celebration of Die Hard”
Dec. 2-21 | Greer Cabaret Theater
It isn’t truly Christmas until John McClane saves the day — and yes, “Die Hard” is a Christmas movie. This year, put a twist on the tradition by going to see the “unauthorized parody” “Yippee Ki Yay: The Parody Celebration of Die Hard.”
Imagine your bestie recapping the entire movie, with props, at the bar. Originally an Edinburgh Fringe hit, this live show is totally safe for those ages 14 and up.
COMEDY
Bill Bellamy
Dec. 5-7 | Pittsburgh Improv
From MTV VJ to co-star of HBO’s “Insecure,” Bill Bellamy has spent decades establishing himself as a versatile entertainer. Best known for his effortlessly smooth (yet goofy) and energetic stage presence, this beloved Gen-X comedian is a masterful storyteller who engages crowds on relatable subjects such as being a family man, current events and everyone’s favorite subject … aging.
WRESTLING
Keystone State Wrestling Alliance
Dec. 6 | American Legion Langley Post 496
Sean Collier’s pick: It’s the end of an era in local professional wrestling, as the Keystone State Wrestling Alliance wraps up its 25th and final year of grappling with one last “Fan Fest” event.
The longstanding promotion has been a staple of the city’s lodges and American Legion halls since the turn of the century, offering family-friendly wrestling shows featuring local brawlers and old-school showmanship.
Their farewell show is a charitable one: It doubles as a holiday toy drive.
MUSIC
Storm Large’s Holiday Ordeal
Dec. 7 | Pittsburgh Winery
There’s a storm brewing, and it’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Storm Large’s Holiday Ordeal is a melodic way to celebrate Sparkle Season, as Large will be performing holiday classics and originals from her holiday album, “A Joyful Noise.”
The Pink Martini vocalist delivers a holiday show unlike any other. This isn’t your grandma’s cozy Christmas show — it’s bold and brassy holiday chaos.
PLAY
“Clue”
Dec. 30-Jan. 4 | Benedum Center
Based on an ’80s cult classic that’s based off of a board game played in wood-paneled basements … it’s “Clue,” the stage show!
Watch the murder mystery unfold right before your eyes as six mysterious guests gather at Boddy Manor for a dinner they’ll never forget. Don’t expect an exact replica of the film; there will be brand new twists and turns to keep you guessing whodunit.

