Orlando Unveils Festive Spirit with Enchanting Holiday Show ‘Christmas in Oz’

Orlando Celebrates the Season with Whimsical Holiday Productions

This holiday season, Orlando brings festivity to life with a series of enchanting performances designed for families and audiences of all ages. The highlight is the musical Christmas in Oz, a delightful 45-minute show that promises to sprinkle holiday magic throughout the community. Directed by Terry LeCompte, the production features the talented Trunk & Trek Troupe, consisting of 13 young actors aged 9 to 18, who embody beloved characters from L. Frank Baum’s classic tale.

What is Christmas in Oz About?

Christmas in Oz, written by Val Cheatham, sees Dorothy reunite with her friends—the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Lion—only to discover that the Emerald City is “Closed for Christmas.” Unfazed, they embark on a journey to bring the spirit of the holidays to Oz. Unexpectedly, they even manage to melt the heart of the Wicked Witch with her very first Christmas gift. This performance is rich with catchy tunes, laughter, and an uplifting message about the importance of giving and community spirit.

Performance Details

The musical is scheduled for multiple performances:

• December 8 at 2:00 PM – The Appleton Museum of Art
• December 9 at 6:30 PM – Mary Sue Rich Community Center (in partnership with the Marion County Library System)
• December 14 at 2:00 PM – Heritage Nature Conservancy (outdoor performance)

Each performance invites audiences to immerse themselves in a joyous experience, making it ideal for families, schools, and anyone looking to celebrate the festive season.

Why Attend?

Christmas in Oz is more than just a show; it’s a celebration of unity and the joy of sharing. With a cast of dedicated young actors, including Zoe Cox, Lily Gonzalez, and Addison Neu, this production aims to resonate with all who attend. The performances are designed to foster a sense of wonder and excitement, reminding viewers of the true meaning of the holiday season. The engaging storyline and musical numbers are sure to leave audiences enchanted and uplifted.

Other Festive Productions in Orlando

Christmas in Oz, other seasonal favorites are also making their rounds in the city. The Hippodrome Theatre is bringing A Christmas Carol by Niall McGinty back to the stage, promising a classic rendition of Charles Dickens’s timeless tale. Additionally, DramaJock Productions plans to premiere Becoming Santa during the 2024 Orlando Fringe Festival, capturing even more of the holiday spirit through innovative storytelling.

Community Engagement and Support

This festive season, community involvement is crucial for sustaining the arts. The Board of Trustees of Riverside Theatre, led by Sandy McManus, has put in place an Executive Succession Plan for the Theatre’s leadership. This ensures that Orlando’s vibrant performing arts scene continues to thrive and offer diverse experiences to the populace. Recently, the Opera also received a programming support grant from Dr. Phillips Charities, backing upcoming productions like Cendrillon by Massenet.

Conclusion

As the countdown to the holidays begins, Orlando stands ready to enchant audiences with its rich array of theatrical performances. From delightful family musicals to classic tales, there is something for everyone to cherish this festive season. Join the community in celebrating the spirit of giving and sharing through the magic of live theatre.