Benedum Center
November 22—27
Various times
Here to help us survive the stress of the holiday season—and laugh all the way until December—are the hilarious hijinks of nine-year-old Ralphie Parker.
From Flick’s tongue getting stuck to a frozen flagpole (yes, this can happen) and Randy whining about his too-snug snowsuit, to Ralphie’s first BB gun mishap—we all have a favorite Christmas Story moment, and now we can relive them at the Benedum Center.
Made into a hit 1983 film based on autobiographical stories penned by legendary radio humorist and author Jean Shepherd, the timeless tale will come to life via an award-winning musical production that nabbed three Tony Award nominations. A perennial holiday classic for the entire family, the dazzling musical captures all of the wonder, delight and wicked wit of the holiday season as seen through the eyes of one very industrious boy living in 1950s Indiana.
Kids will join in on all of the (mis)adventures of the show’s young and bespectacled protagonist, Ralphie Parker, who wants only one thing for Christmas: an official Red Ryder Carbine-Action 200-Shot Range Model Air Rifle (even as his parents memorably admonish: “You’ll shoot your eye out, kid!”)
Standing in the way of Ralphie as he schemes his way toward the holiday gift of his dreams is everything from an infamous leg lamp and outrageous pink bunny pajamas, to a maniacal department store Santa and a “double dog dare” prank with pals.
Families will sing and sway along to the nostalgic holiday themed score which includes splashy production numbers and heartfelt songs created by the composer/lyricist team of Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. Directed by Matt Lenz, the musical showcases choreography by Jason Sparks and Warren Carlyle, scenic design by Mike Carnahan, costumes by Lisa Zinni, and lighting by Charlie Morrison.
Recommended for ages 7 and up, A Christmas Story—The Musical is part of The Pittsburgh’s Cultural Trust‘s Broadway In Pittsburgh 2016-17 Season.
Want to know more about the show? On November 23 at 6:30 p.m., audiences are invited to attend a free pre-show talk, Know The Show Before You Go, at the Trust Arts Education Center.
Looking for more events? Check out our 10 Pittsburgh events not to miss in November and 10 great family adventures in Pittsburgh this November feature stories.