URGENT UPDATE: Southern California’s holiday theater scene is now in full swing, offering a vibrant array of performances just in time for the festive season. With traditional holiday favorites and unique productions, residents and visitors alike have a plethora of options to experience live theater this December.
DEVELOPING: For the first time in years, major venues like the Pantages and Dolby Theatres are not hosting any narrative Christmas productions. However, this gap has opened the door for smaller, community-driven shows that are ready to dazzle audiences. Here’s a rundown of what you can see right now!
LOS ANGELES COUNTY:
– **“All About Santa”** at Santa Monica Playhouse features a comedic twist where Santa is missing, and corporate “Suits” are attempting to commercialize the season. Performances are scheduled for **Dec. 6-7** and **Dec. 13-14**. Tickets are **$19.50** for adults and **$17.50** for children under 12.
– **“Bob’s Holiday Office Party”** at Odyssey Theatre returns for its 28th year, running from **Dec. 5-21**. This irreverent comedy about a holiday bash in Neuterburg, Iowa, offers a humorous take on office antics. Tickets range from **$25 to $30**.
– **“A Charlie Brown Christmas Live”** will be performed at two venues: Pomona College on **Dec. 18** and at The Novo on **Dec. 19**. This live adaptation of the beloved 1965 cartoon is priced from **$53 to $155**.
– **“A Christmas Carol”** at A Noise Within runs from **Nov. 29 to Dec. 24**. This faithful rendition features both seasoned and new actors in an intimate 324-seat theater. Tickets are priced between **$65.75 and $101.75**.
RIVERSIDE COUNTY:
– **“A Christmas Carol”** at Riverside Community Players Theater is celebrating its 101st year with family-friendly performances running from **Dec. 5-14**. Tickets are available for just **$16.99**.
– Old Town Temecula Community Theater presents a double feature: **“A Christmas Carol, the Musical”** from **Nov. 28 to Dec. 7** and **“Irving Berlin’s White Christmas”** from **Dec. 12-21**. Tickets range from **$30 to $35**.
ORANGE COUNTY:
– **“A Christmas Carol”** at South Coast Repertory runs from **Nov. 29 to Dec. 28**. Richard Doyle returns as Scrooge for his 40th season in this classic tale, with tickets priced from **$66 to $111**.
– **“Scrooge! The Musical”** debuts at Chance Theater from **Nov. 29 to Dec. 19**. This adaptation features the original score and a family-friendly vibe, with tickets between **$58 and $116**.
VENTURA COUNTY:
– **“Nuncrackers!”** at the Simi Valley Cultural Center will keep audiences entertained from **Dec. 5-21**. Tickets are priced from **$32 to $37**.
ACT NOW: With tickets selling fast and holiday performances underway, now is the time to secure your spot for these engaging theatrical experiences. Whether you’re looking for a heartwarming classic or a comedic twist on the holiday season, Southern California’s theater scene has something for everyone.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the respective theater websites or box offices. Don’t miss out on the chance to celebrate the season with live performances that bring joy and excitement to the holidays!
