A musical holiday tradition to take stage at Benedum
The annual Christmas story about a little boy who wants nothing more than a Red Ryder BB Gun, will take to the Pittsburgh Stage in “A Christmas Story the Musical” Nov. 22-27 at the Benedum Center in Pittsburgh as part of the PNC Broadway in Pittsburgh Series.
Actor Chris Carsten, who performs the role of Jean Shepherd in the film, was drawn to the musical because of his experience with the film.
“I was familiar with the story and had seen the movie before and it is a lot of fun. I was kind of curious what material we were putting together for a musical,” said Carsten. “I was friends with the producer and he called me in to audition for it and it worked out and I was able to (be on the) cast, and I had a wonderful time with the show.”
Carsten, who has portrayed this role for three years, said that this character is more present in the musical format than he is in the film.
“It is an actual character. It is like he is giving one of his radio broadcasts. He is in his radio booth and he is going to be telling a story in his radio show,” he explained. “He speaks into the mind of Ralphie about the action that is going on stage. It is really funny and a lot of fun.”
For those unfamiliar with the plot, a young Ralphie Parker relentlessly works at trying to ensure that his ideal Christmas present, an official Red Ryder Carbine-Action 200-Shot Range Model Air Rifle, is under his Christmas tree on Christmas morning.
In the lead up to the big day Ralphie encounters a series of madcap and zany happenings including the legendary leg lamp, a pink nightmare of bunny pajamas, a tongue frozen to a flag pole and more.
Fans of the film, that is typically shown on television for 24 hours starting Christmas Eve, will be well acquainted with the plot of the musical.
“It is very faithful to the movie. It is just they put music to a lot of the incredible scenes from the movie. The musical was nominated for a Tony a few years back. It is just a beloved story and it is a great night for theater going audiences,” said Carsten. “One of my favorite scenes in the show is ‘Ralphie to the Rescue.’ It is a huge musical number and it is full of color and pageantry. It goes into the mind of Ralphie rescuing his parents in a dire situation. It has wonderful music and dancing and costumes.”
Carsten said the musical will help put people in the holiday spirit.
“I think it is fun to get to do such a wonderful piece during this time of year, the holiday season,” said Carsten about his favorite part of the performance. “It is a fun ride. It is emotional, it is well written, it is fun to perform for live audiences. I love being part of such a wonderful part of the show and a great cast. It makes anytime you have to go out and perform it something I get very excited about. I am very grateful for this wonderful opportunity.”
Performances will be held Tuesday through Thursday evenings at 7:30 p.m., Friday evening at 8 p.m, Saturday at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Sunday at 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Tickets range between $26 and $77 and are available online at trustarts.org or by calling 412-456-4800.