The holiday spirit is taking center stage in downtown Windsor as St. Clair College's music theatre performance program presents its annual festive production, 'Letters to Santa.' This high-energy musical, now in its 19th year, transforms the Chrysler Theatre into a vibrant North Pole workshop, offering a heartwarming dose of Christmas cheer for the entire community.
A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Santa's Workshop
Audiences are invited to spend a day in Santa's bustling workshop, where the jolly elf himself reads a global mailbag of heartfelt, hopeful, and hilarious letters. The stage comes alive with elves and reindeer racing against the clock to prepare for Christmas Eve, mischievous children embarking on adventures, and the entire North Pole sparkling with excitement.
"This is a show filled with heart, laughter and the magic that brings us all together during the holidays," says director and choreographer Kristyn Wiklanski. "We cannot wait to share this festive celebration with the community."
Student-Driven Production Offers Real-World Experience
The production is a massive undertaking for the college's first-year music theatre students. A total of 65 students are involved both on stage and behind the scenes, making it a crucial component of their stage craft curriculum.
Wiklanski explains that students work closely with the entire production team—including the costume designer, music director, and stage manager—to develop a deep appreciation for the collaborative effort required in theatre. Their hands-on tasks include building props, organizing costumes, running warm-ups, and preparing music books for the band.
"It also exposes them to different career options available in the performance industry," Wiklanski added, highlighting the educational value of the tradition.
Show Details and Ticket Information
The cast features students Zachary Steinke as Santa Claus and Hannah Rossi as Mrs. Claus. They are joined by their peers who dance and sing to a live band performing a mix of holiday classics and contemporary favourites.
'Letters to Santa' opens on Friday, December 5, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. at the Chrysler Theatre, located at 201 Riverside Dr. W. in Windsor. Additional performances are scheduled for December 6, 11, and 12 at 7:30 p.m., with a matinee on December 13 at 2 p.m.
Tickets are priced at $30 for general admission and $25 for students. They can be purchased at the Chrysler Theatre box office or online through the official ticketing portal. Special offerings include a dinner and theatre package on December 11 for $49.95 and box seats for the December 13 matinee at $40 each.
As a cherished holiday tradition for both the college and Windsor, the show promises a fresh experience each year. "It does not matter how many times you have seen it before," assures Wiklanski, "you will always be in for some exciting new holiday adventures as well as some timeless classics."
