Local theaters unwrap holiday magic

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA (Dec. 12, 2024) — ’Twas the Sunday before Christmas, and all through the Firehouse, lots of happiness is stirring, and don’t worry, it doesn’t include any mice.

What it does include, however, is a rare big-screen presentation of the magical musical movie “Once Upon a Time Step” featuring a colorful musical revue with song and dance numbers from “Cinderella,” “Aladdin and the Lamp,” “Snow White,” “Jack and the Beanstalk” and more.

But that’s not all, there will also be a live musical stage show featuring Santa Claus and the Elves performing holiday favorites. After the show, audience members can mingle and take photos with the characters.

Presented by East Bay Children’s Theatre, it takes place at the Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton, at 2 p.m. Dec. 22. Costumes and over-the-top holiday attire are encouraged. There is even a prize for the ugliest sweater.

The show lasts approximately one hour. To reserve tickets, go to www.firehousearts.org.

Magical Music Tour

Star Quest presents “Magical Music Tour” with lots of singing, dancing, Disney characters and surprises for all ages Dec. 14-15 at the Campbell Theater, 636 Ward St., Martinez.

Performed by a cast of talented youngsters ages 5 to 18, this musical play is upbeat, familiar and just a little silly. Audience members are encouraged to wear costumes and qualify for a raffle prize.
Go to wwwcampbelltheater.com for tickets.

A Christmas Carol

Scrooge, everyone’s favorite curmudgeon, returns to Center Rep with the forever popular “A Christmas Carol.”

Running through Dec. 22, the annual treat brings Christmas carols, dancing, special effects and, of course, spooky spirits to Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center, 1601 Civic Dr.

The large multigenerational cast includes Michael Ray Wisely, who plays Ebenezer Scrooge for the ninth year, Kerri Shawn returning as the Ghost of Christmas Past for 20-plus years and counting, and Jeanine Perasso in her 26th year as Mrs. Fezziwig. The cast also features Scott Coopwood (Ghost of Jacob Marley), Michael Patrick Wiles (Bob Cratchit), Terrance Smith (Ghost of Christmas Present) and Scott Maraj (Ghost of Christmas Future).

“Center Rep’s production of ‘A Christmas Carol’ has become a beloved Bay Area holiday tradition, bringing the timeless story of redemption, family and festive spirit to life year after year,” said Center Rep artistic director Matt M. Morrow. “This universally beloved tale invites us to embrace the magic of the season and serves as a reminder that compassion, generosity and second chances are at the heart of the holiday spirit.”

For tickets, call 925-943-7469 or go to www.centerrep.org.

You can also join Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Lesher Center for an immersive, live theater experience courtesy of Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble. To set up your private meeting and photo opportunity, call 925-943-7469 or go to www.centerrep.org.

Every Christmas Story Ever Told

Lafayette’s Town Hall Theatre, 3535 School St., has its own take on holiday entertainment with “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and Then Some!).”

Running through Dec. 21, this fast-paced delight blends an array of beloved Christmas stories, characters and traditions with a playful, slightly irreverent twist.

Directed by Ciera Eis, the cast features Cecilia Palmtag, Kristy Aquino and Benjamin Garcia playing a crazy assortment of characters.

For tickets, call 925-283-6673 or go to www.townhalltheatre.com.

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