Gene Schilling In a season already stuffed like a holiday turkey with Christmas fare, Windsor Light Music Theatre is betting big on nostalgia – and they’re not shooting their eye out. This musical adaptation of the beloved classic promises to deliver more than just pink bunny suits and frozen flagpoles – it’s bringing a blizzard of theatrical magic to The Chrysler Theatre. With performances starting this weekend, running November 15-24, audiences are invited to step back into a nostalgic Christmas wonderland that promises laughter, heart, and the magic of live theater.
In a season already stuffed like a holiday turkey with Christmas fare, Windsor Light Music Theatre is betting big on nostalgia – and they’re not shooting their eye out. This musical adaptation of the beloved classic promises to deliver more than just pink bunny suits and frozen flagpoles – it’s bringing a blizzard of theatrical magic to The Chrysler Theatre. With performances starting this weekend, running November 15-24, audiences are invited to step back into a nostalgic Christmas wonderland that promises laughter, heart, and the magic of live theater.
In the director’s chair, Matthew Dumouchel doesn’t just bring vision – he brings the warmth of personal memory that glows as bright as any leg lamp. “I was drawn to this project because of my own family traditions of watching A Christmas Story during the holidays,” he reveals, his vision extending beyond mere recreation to “invigorate the joy this timeless story brings to life in a way that celebrates the warmth and nostalgia of the season.”
Like finding the perfect Christmas gift, casting Ralphie required both inspiration and ingenuity. “We needed someone who could handle a heavy workload, show dedication to their craft, and bring the entire ensemble together,” Dumouchel explains. Christopher Dawson and James Fleming share the coveted role, with “Christopher capturing Ralphie’s curiosity and innocence, while James leans into his adventurous and slightly mischievous side.”
Behind the curtain, technical wizardry transforms the stage into a slice of 1940s Indiana. “The most challenging aspect has been creating a fully functioning, dimensional house on stage,” Dumouchel shares. “If you are coming in to see a true house on stage, you will be pleasantly surprised with our ambitious goals paying off and then some.”
The production’s artistic team orchestrates a symphony of movement and music that would make Higbee’s Department Store proud. “Diana focused on creating choreography that matched the playful, whimsical spirit of the story while ensuring each dance number was as energetic and entertaining as it was meaningful,” Dumouchel explains. “Nicholas crafted a musical direction that highlighted the show’s rich, original score, written by Justin Paul and Benj Pasek.”
The musical heartbeat of the show pulses with contemporary Broadway pedigree. “The musical score stands out due to its heartwarming melodies and lively, original songs that embody the essence of Christmas while enhancing the story’s emotional richness,” Dumouchel notes. “The duo skillfully intertwines humor, joy, and sentiment in each piece, ensuring their music aligns beautifully with the film’s nostalgic moments.”
In the props department, creativity shines brighter than the Parkers’ front window display. “Our amazing props department worked wonders by creating over 13 unique leg lamps, each designed for specific staging purposes using a 3D model,” Dumouchel reveals. Each illuminated limb serves as a testament to the production’s attention to detail.
Like preparing for Christmas morning, the rehearsal process demanded dedication and patience. “Rehearsals kicked off in June, with our cast meeting twice weekly,” shares Dumouchel. “We started by learning the music, then gradually layered in choreography and stage blocking. The children have been right there with us every step of the way, and we couldn’t be prouder of their dedication.”
The costume shop buzzes with activity rivaling Santa’s workshop. “With 39 actors portraying a variety of characters throughout the show, we utilize over 200 unique costumes that enhance the carefully crafted set design,” Dumouchel explains. Each thread and button helps weave the tapestry of this nostalgic world.
Even the four-legged cast members bring their own holiday spirit. “We had the unique privilege of working with two dogs during the rehearsal process—Morty, a Bull Mastiff, and Marcus, a Heinz 57,” Dumouchel shares. These canine thespians add an element of unpredictable charm to the Bumpus hounds’ scenes.
The show’s centerpiece number sparkles like Christmas lights on fresh snow. “The most challenging musical number in our production is A Major Award, the pivotal moment when the Old Man wins the infamous leg lamp trophy,” Dumouchel reveals. This showstopper promises to elevate the iconic moment to new theatrical heights.
Stage magic comes alive through clever engineering and theatrical sleight-of-hand. “We’ve had the opportunity to design several trap and trick doors within our house set,” Dumouchel explains, transforming the static structure into a living, breathing part of the storytelling.
The multi-generational ensemble creates an authentic slice of small-town life. “Our cast of 39 on-stage actors spans a wide age range, from 7 years old to over 50,” notes Dumouchel. This diverse tapestry of performers brings genuine warmth to every scene.
Classic moments from the film receive theatrical reinvention worthy of Radio Hour Orphan Annie. “Through skillful direction and intentional choreography, local Windsor performers have meticulously prepared for iconic moments like the flagpole tongue-stick and the leg lamp scene,” Dumouchel shares. Each beloved scene springs to life “in a larger than life fashion.”
The costume design wraps the production in period authenticity. “The blend of fabrics, colors, and textures creates a rich, immersive atmosphere that transports the audience directly to the 1940s,” Dumouchel explains. Every bow and button tells its own story.
Behind the scenes, community spirit powers this theatrical celebration. “Thanks to the efforts of over 100 dedicated volunteers, we’ve been able to incorporate immense detail into every piece,” Dumouchel proudly notes. This army of helpers ensures no tinsel goes unturned.
The production extends its welcome to all audiences on November 22nd. “We are committed to making theater accessible for our community,” Dumouchel shares, highlighting their partnership with Stage Hands Windsor for ASL interpretation that promises to be “comprehensive and creatively aligned with the show’s energy.”
Like unwrapping a familiar gift in surprising paper, the show balances tradition with innovation. “While this musical is adapted from the movie and closely follows its storyline, it offers new layers of charm and excitement,” Dumouchel explains, promising fresh perspectives on cherished moments.
As the curtain prepares to rise, Dumouchel’s holiday wish comes into focus. “We hope that audiences leave this production with a heart full of holiday cheer and a renewed sense of the importance of family,” he shares. “Beyond the laughter and iconic moments, we want everyone to feel the warmth of togetherness and the joy of tradition, just like Ralphie and his family.”
This yuletide celebration runs November 15-24 at The Chrysler Theatre, promising to transport audiences to “a time when family was at the center of every tradition.” Don’t shoot your eye out missing this one.
Visit: www.windsorlight.com/achristmasstory
