Christmas is almost here at last! By now, most folks have probably tackled the bulk of their Christmas shopping except for maybe a few last-minute gifts. So now is the time to take a breather and treat yourself to a little of that leisure time you’ve sacrificed all season long in favor of the constant hustle and bustle and must-do preparations. Why not use this time to kick back, relax, and take in a heartfelt Christmas stage production? If you happen to be in or around Lancaster County this weekend there are many Christmas-Season appropriate shows and performances to consider. Here are five fantastic suggestions.
Santa Claus: The Musical
Dutch Apple Dinner Theater
510 Centerville Rd, Lancaster, PA 17601
(Now through December 29)
Get ready for this energetic, fun-loving, jolly musical production that’s sure to get the whole family into the holiday spirit. Having been in business for a thousand years, Santa Claus has decided that it is time to retire. But some of the elves aren’t too thrilled about the big man’s prospective replacement, Nick. Brace yourself for a whole slew of humorous antics and unimaginable adventures full of toe-tapping music and holiday cheer.
Visit the Apple Dutch Dinner Theatre website for all information regarding showtimes, ticket prices, seating, and menu selections.
A Christmas Carol: The Musical
Apple Dutch Dinner Theatre
510 Centerville Rd, Lancaster, PA 17601
(Now through December 30)
Christmastime wouldn’t be complete without a performance of A Christmas Carol. The classic story by Charles Dickens, redone as a theatrical stage musical, has become an annual seasonal tradition at many venues. Folks living in or visiting Lancaster this Christmas season can catch ongoing performances at Apple Dutch Dinner Theatre through December 30. While you already know the familiar theme about miserly Scrooge being visited by three ghosts at Christmastime, nothing compares to seeing it like this, on stage with vibrant sets, talented performers, and amazing music.
Again, you can learn more about these performances and all other happenings at Apple Dutch Dinner Theatre by visiting their website.
Our Christmas Dinner
Bird-in-Hand Stage
2760 Old Philadelphia Pike, #A, Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505
(Now through December 30)
Here’s an unconventional family-friendly Christmas plot like no other. A Blue Gate Musicals hit, the story here centers around the Davidson family and the struggles they’re dealing with this Christmas. George recently lost his job and Jackie is unable to buy Christmas presents unless George’s unemployment check arrives in time. But things get even more complex when an Amish farmer and his wife join the party after their buggy gets caught outside in a snow drift. And on top of all that you have Jackie’s brother and his new fiancée leading a truly diverse compilation of characters and a comedic Christmas none of them will ever forget!
You can learn more about this show’s premise and other Blue Gate Musicals here. Visit the website link for Bird-in-Hand Stage for upcoming performance information, ticket prices, and more.
The 2023 Christmas Show: The First Noel
American Music Theatre
2425 Lincoln Highway E., Lancaster, PA 17602
(Now through December 30)
If you want to experience the perfect holiday ensemble of sensational singers and dancers decked out in eye-catching costumes set against vivid sets, then The First Noel is just the thing you and your family need. Here you can delight in a compilation of both festive and familiar favored melodies and beautiful sacred traditional songs alike. From the amazing vocal talents of the show’s performers to the phenomenal orchestra, not to mention the awe-inspiring enchanted woodland scenery to enhance the overall mood and feeling, the 2023 Christmas Show: The First Noel provides an impressive, heart-warming holiday entertainment experience for all ages.
To learn more about this production, including performance times, ticket prices, and more, visit the American Music Theatre website show link.
Miracle of Christmas
Sight & Sound Stage Theatres
300 Hartman Bridge Road, Ronks, PA 17572
(Now through December 30)
The truest Christmas story of all is, of course, Miracle of Christmas. Presented as a breathtaking retelling of Joseph and Mary’s journey to Bethlehem and the birth of Jesus, this spectacular production is sure to captivate viewers of all ages. From wondrous sets to live camels and other animals in-house, flying angels and much more, this is a truly remarkable show that reminds everyone what the true reason for the season is.
Visit the link to Sight & Sound Theatres for more information about this show as well as all others.
Christmas Season or not, Lancaster County is home to so many wonderful theaters and regularly occurring stage productions and performances throughout the year. But be warned that tickets sell out fast and it’s always best to plan accordingly and make reservations as far in advance as possible for any shows you wish to experience.