As the holiday season approaches, Vancouver's theatre scene comes alive with an exciting lineup of family-friendly productions perfect for December entertainment. From classic musicals to contemporary adaptations, these shows offer seasonal satisfaction for audiences of all ages.
Top Theatre Picks for Family Entertainment
The December theatre calendar features something for everyone, including secular options like East Van Panto, Little Women, Annie, Frozen, and Mr. Burns. However, Christmas-themed productions truly dominate this month's offerings, with musicals, pantos, improvisational shows, cabarets, and puppet shows taking center stage throughout Vancouver.
Little Women: A Timeless Classic Returns
Louisa May Alcott's beloved coming-of-age novel arrives at the Granville Island Stage in a new stage adaptation that runs until January 4. The production features Lauren M. Gunderson's highly regarded script - noteworthy as Gunderson has been the most-produced living playwright in the United States for three of the past eight years.
The Arts Club production boasts an all-star cast of March sisters including Elizabeth Barrett, Kate Besworth, Ming Hudson, and Kaitlyn Yott. Under Barbara Tomasic's direction, this inspirational story promises to captivate audiences throughout the holiday season. Tickets start at $29 and are available through artsclub.com.
East Van Panto: West Van Story Delights Audiences
Running at the York Theatre until January 4, this year's East Van Panto production may be its best ever according to critics. The show features Ivy Charles and Ben Brown as charming star-crossed lovers, while Dawn Petten portrays a hilariously evil capitalist developer who becomes a audience boo-magnet.
Additional standout performances include Meaghan Chenosky with her comedic West Van accent and Tom Pickett who makes the East Van sign unexpectedly lovable. With Veda Hille providing musical genius, Amanda Testini contributing nifty choreography, and Chelsea Haberlin directing with panache, this production is not to be missed. Tickets begin at $59 through thecultch.com.
Dickens' Lesser-Known Christmas Tale
The Cricket on the Hearth, Charles Dickens' 1845 novella that was once more popular than A Christmas Carol, comes to life at Jericho Arts Centre from November 28 to December 21. United Players artistic director Sarah Rodgers and actress Naomi Wright have adapted this little-known Dickensian Christmas story.
The production features original music and songs by Christopher King and promises spectacular costumes by Mara Gottler. Sarah Rodgers directs this holiday gem with tickets ranging from $15 to $37 available at unitedplayers.com.
Annie Returns to Gateway Theatre
Leapin' lizards! The perennial musical favorite Annie returns to Gateway Theatre in Richmond from December 11 to January 3, exactly four decades after it first opened the venue. This production features all the elements that have made the show beloved: cute kids, great songs, excellent comic characters, and of course, a puppy.
The cast includes Azaleah Korn as Annie, Jennifer Copping as the nasty Miss Hannigan, and Charlie Gallant as Daddy Warbucks. Directed by Josh Epstein with choreography by Nicol Spinola, this production promises to deliver all the heartwarming entertainment families expect. Tickets start at $25 and are available through gatewaytheatre.com.
Whether you're seeking traditional holiday cheer or quality family entertainment without the Christmas theme, Vancouver's December theatre lineup offers exceptional options to create lasting seasonal memories.
