I DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU, BUT WE’VE HEARD THE STATE THEATRE PUTS ON THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER. December 9-12, catch an evening show or matinee of this live production featuring talented children who are only acting naughty.

White Christmas (CVTG)

In light of the Chippewa Valley Theatre Guild’s 30th Anniversary, various classical productions and holiday favorites are scheduled for this year’s performance collection. Irving Berlin’s iconic and timeless holiday classic, White Christmas, will debut at The State Theatre for the first time in Eau Claire this December.

The story follows WWII army comrades Bob Wallace and Phil Davis, who’ve connected as a successful song and dance team, as they put on a show at a Vermont inn to aid in the profiteering of a fellow army general. Audience members can expect the familiar tunes of Happy Holiday, Blues Sky, The Best Things Happen While You Are Dancing, Let Me Sing and I’m Happy, and the titular White Christmas throughout the performance. For those eager for a little romance and gleeful holiday entertainment, this show is sure to satisfy.

Yes Virginia, There is a Santa Claus (ECCT)

The Eau Claire Children’s Theatre is scheduled to produce another holiday family favorite, Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus. Based on a true story, the play will be as touching as it is memorable.

Following a period of grief over the death of his wife, a newspaper writer is assigned to write a letter to a young girl who has been questioning the existence of Santa Claus. The resulting newspaper editorial has since become one of the most reprinted pieces in the business. All will appreciate this tale of love, spirit, and the tender innocence of a child in determining the true meaning of the holiday season.

Best Christmas Pageant Ever (MTG)

Called “one of the best Christmas stories ever” by the Seattle Times, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever is sure to draw audiences eager for some lighthearted holiday entertainment. With open auditions, the Menomonie Theatre Guild saw 75 individuals vying for these clever roles.

The play tells the story of a couple attempting to produce a Christmas pageant after casting devilish children who cause utter pandemonium on stage, threatening the success of the show. Weaving hilarity and sentiment, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever is sure to deliver just what you are looking for this holiday season.

Forever Plaid (ECCT)

For those who remember that fateful day in 1962 when the members of Forever Plaid were killed in an auto accident, this musical production will bring the vocal harmonies back on stage. The musical by the same name features holiday classics as well as the signature 50s hits of the group, including: Three Coins in the Fountain, Gotta Be This or That, Catch a Falling Star, and Rags to Riches.

The production, with its giddy and uplifting melodies, complete with plaid suits, offers the closest way to experience the short-lived pop sensation without the original group actually being reincarnated on the stage. Whether or not you remember the original group, the production will be enjoyable for the young and young at heart.

You Still Better Watch Out (Fanny Hill)

If you are looking for a holiday show complete with dinner, head over to Fanny Hill for their production of You Still Better Watch Out. The production tells the story of a group of misfits stranded at Willow Inn during a snowstorm on Christmas Eve. In trying to keep the peace, the innkeepers inadvertently help the group discover the true meaning of the holidays.