
All Uses © 2023 Craig Schwartz Photography
The Holiday spirit arrives to the Ahmanson Theatre with the musical adaptation of the beloved classic, ‘A Christmas Story’. All that Ralphie desires for Christmas is a Red Ryder BB Gun for Christmas. Ralphie plugs away to convince his unpredicted family in the 1940s in Indiana to get him the gun for Christmas. Throughout it all, he finds the true meaning of Christmas as well. The songwriting team behind Dear Evan Hansen, the critically-acclaimed films La La Land, and The Greatest Showman bring the beloved classic film to the stage with unforgettable lyrics and tunes.
Director Matt Lenz and writer Joseph Robinette rise high to the Christmas spirit with a fulfilled musical production that capitalizes everything that we love about the holidays. From beginning to end, Lenz offers an appealing story to subline the true meaning of Christmas with huge musical numbers and a cast that shines like the shines like the top of the chrysler building. Choreographer Warren Carlyle creates cohesive dance numbers that are memorable and showcase everyone’s talents to the max.

All Uses © 2023 Craig Schwartz Photography
The production becomes even more superior and unique when discussing the talented cast. Stand-outs include Kai Edgar as Ralphie who delivers an excellent interpretation of the character. Edgar will blow your mind as his timing is exquisite and gives every child actor their moment to shine. Edgar also have great comedic relief when things aren’t looking too happy on stage for other characters. Sabrina Sloan as mother delivers a performance that is pleasantly smooth and soft, although her character is not very relatable for our times. Sloan rigorously shines with the material that is given to her. Lastly, Eric Petersen as father hits the ball out of the field with a performance that feels effortless, witty, and heartwarming. All the children in the show deliver an outstanding performance that is appropriate for the material.
“A Christmas Story, The Musical” might feel like nothing new as it coordinates well with the film but also offers a delightful time at the theater with musical numbers that will make your heart feel the holiday cheer. The musical conveys a message of unity and harmony, restating why ‘A Christmas Story’ is so special.
‘A Christmas Story, the Musical’ is now playing at the Ahmanson theatre until December 31st.