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Holiday cabaret magic comes to Rittenhouse Grill

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This is a vibrant promotional photograph featuring two performers, a woman and a man, embracing and smiling brightly in front of a backdrop resembling Times Square at night. The woman on the left has dark, curly hair and is wearing a dark, low-cut dress covered in sparkling sequins; she is leaning her head towards the man and smiling widely, showing bright red lipstick. The man on the right has grey hair and is wearing a striking black, white, and tan patterned suit jacket over a white shirt and a gold tie, with a red pocket square. Both look joyful and excited, and the background is filled with glowing, colorful billboards advertising various shows and companies, including "Subway," "Aladdin," and "Bahamas."
It’s Christmas Time in the City (Photo by Pope/Nadler)

Philadelphia is about to be lit up with holiday warmth, wit, and world-class talent as Mark Nadler and Stephanie Pope — two celebrated performers with deep ties to both New Jersey and New York — bring their one-night-only cabaret show, It’s Christmas Time in the City, to Rittenhouse Grill on Monday, Dec, 15.

If you’re a fan of Broadway, cabaret, or simply crave an evening of genuine connection and musical brilliance, you won’t want to miss this show. Nadler, a pianist, singer and occasional tap dancer, has been performing in cabarets and nightclubs for over five decades. His journey began at age 10, and over 53 years, he’s developed a unique ability to connect with every audience member, making each show an intimate, unforgettable experience. “I try to literally connect with every single person in the audience at least twice during a show,” Nadler shares. “It’s a conversation between you and the audience.”

Pope, a Broadway veteran known for her starring role in Fosse, brings her own brand of virtuosity, humor, and heartfelt support to the stage. The pair first performed together years ago at Sardi’s, but when Nadler asked if she’d be interested in doing this show with him, “I jumped at the opportunity,” Pope says. “I’ve loved Mark for decades. When he asked, I said, ‘Of course!’”

Their show promises not just musical excellence but also a celebration of community, identity, and the power of live performance. Both Nadler and Pope are passionate about amplifying LGBTQ voices and stories through music and theater. Nadler, who has always been out and proud, believes the best way to advocate is simply by being himself on stage. Pope, a lifelong ally, reflects on the importance of using her voice to support the community she’s always called home.

As the holidays approach, this pair is sure to bring “joy, warmth, and light” to their audience — a fitting gift for the season. “We’re sharing ourselves. And what we get in exchange is that energy back,” Pope reflects. Expect laughter, heartfelt moments, and maybe a few surprises along the way.

Don’t miss this chance to experience cabaret at its finest. For tickets and more information, visit RittenhouseGrill.com