Quote of the Day: Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas. Calvin Coolidge

Michael Gruber, Ann Michels, Andrea Mislan, and Tony Vierling in Irving Berlin’s White Christmas at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, thru 1/25/25. Photo: Dan Norman, 2024

You might think it’s too early to start thinking about Christmas, but I say, “Why not?” The good feels, “the spirit of Christmas” can last throughout the year. The music and stories, the embrace of family, the tender memories are what wrap us up in comfort like a cozy blanket, a warm beverage and a book or favorite movie. The Chanhassen Dinner Theatres is presenting Irving Berlin’s White Christmas through January 25, 2025. It’s a seasonal show, so they started it early and end it earlier than most of their runs, and tickets are already selling fast. In fact, it looks like all the shows are sold out for November and December with a note to call the box office in case something opens up. You can still get tickets for October, New Year’s Eve (I think that would be a great way to spend NYE!), and January. 

Cast of White Christmas at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, thru 1/25/25. Photo: Dan Norman, 2024

The Chanhassen’s production of White Christmas is everything you hope it will be and more! Experiencing a show live, especially one with so much heart and nostalgia, is worth every effort it takes to get there. The emotions are enhanced as you feel the music swell from the wonderful live orchestra (lead by Andy Kust) and hear the gorgeous voices of the very talented performers. Add to that a delicious meal, time with friends and family, and the energy of the entire audience as they respond to the humor, music, and story. 

Ann Michels and Andrea Mislan in White Christmas at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, thru 1/25/25. Photo: Dan Norman, 2024

Michael Gruber and Tony Vierling play the popular performing duo Bob Wallace and Phil Davis. Phil is a bit more of a philanderer, while Bob tends to focus more on their performing career. When they meet the sister act, Betty and Judy Haynes, played by the marvelous Ann Michels and Andrea Mislan, their lives take a turn. The four actors blend beautifully together as singers and dancers. They have great play between them and magically bring the story to life. They are surrounded by a terrific ensemble of singers and dancers. Each number is a spectacular display of musical storytelling. 

Michael Gruber and Tony Vierling in White Christmas at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, thru 1/25/25. Photo: Dan Norman, 2024

Michelle Barber plays the humorous Martha Watson who is running the inn, owned by retired General Waverly, played by Joenathan Thomas. His granddaughter Susan (double cast with Jenalia Valerio and Malee Cenizal) is darling, and she has some delightful standout moments with her own. Jon Andrew Hegge cracked us up in his various roles, especially as Ezekiel. 

Andrea Mislan and Tony Vierling in White Christmas at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, thru 1/25/25. Photo: Dan Norman, 2024

Once again Rich Hamson has designed spectacular costumes that move and flow with the dancers while depicting both the times and the theme of the songs. One of my favorites was “I Love a Piano” (not just because, I do, in fact, love a piano) where everyone in the scene is dressed in black & white, and as the dancers line up, it resembles piano keys. Plus, a tiny robot piano comes out and dances with them. This is a tap number, as well, so the whole scene had me cheering! And, of course, a very sweet moment is when Bob sings “Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep,” to Susan, while Betty watches in the distance, and then the General comes in at the end of the scene and carries his sleeping granddaughter to bed.

Jenalia Valerio, Michael Gruber, and Ann Michaels in White Christmas at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, thru 1/25/25. Photo: Dan Norman, 2024

Lovely Scenic Design by Nayna Ramey that is the perfect backdrop to this beloved classic. It has many larger moving pieces and a few smaller ones that the company easily moves in and out, including an enormous Christmas present! Plenty of room for the dancers to kick up their heals and knock our socks off. Tamara Kangas Erickson is choreographer.  Lighting design by Sue Ellen Berger, and sound design by Russ Haynes. Hair & Makeup designers are Lex Patton and Tracy Swenson. Michael Brindisi once again shares his enormous talents as a director bringing this endearing story to the stage. It is filled with heart and romance, a bit of nostalgia and spectacular singing and dancing. 

Michael Gruber and company in White Christmas at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, thru 1/25/25. Photo: Dan Norman, 2024

Get your tickets soon for a nearly sold out run of Irving Berlin’s White Christmas on stage at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres through January 25, 2025. 

Joenathan Thomas, Jon Andrew Hegge, and Michelle Barber in White Christmas at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, thru 1/25/25. Photo: Dan Norman, 2024

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: What are your favorite traditions around the holidays (any holiday, I know we haven’t even passed Halloween, yet!)?