INTRO Just as this time of year is vital for retailers, the holiday season is hugely important for arts organizations. The flurry of ticket buying to holiday shows like A Christmas Carol and the Nutcracker, brings in a significant part of the year's operating budget for Twin Cities arts organizations. Its also a time when may young people get their initial exposure to the arts. Yet Despite an almost-guaranteed holiday audience for some shows, nationwide, audience numbers for cultural events are stagnant. And so, like any business, arts organizations are dreaming up creative new strategies to pack 'em in. Minnesota Public Radio's Mary Stucky has more.