No, Not Christmas Shows, Here Are the Best Christmas Time Shows 

by Lara McLain, Contributing Writer

I've said it before and I'll say it again, theatre is the best way to get into the holiday spirit. Something about the stage has a unique way of spreading the magic of the season.

But what if you don't celebrate Christmas? Well, no worries, as I've compiled a list of non-Christmas shows that are sure to fill you with holiday cheer (any time of the year!).

My Neighbor Totoro

If you're lucky enough to be in London this holiday season, don't waste any time getting tickets to this show. My Neighbor Totoro is a beautiful stage adaptation of the classic Studio Ghibli film, and it's sure to bring a healthy dose of magic to your life. It's colorful, heartfelt, and a definite must-see. 

This show is particularly perfect if you have kids. It's a coming-of-age fantasy that follows two little girls and their friendship with a good-natured spirit. I first saw the Studio Ghibli film when I was nine years old, and I think that this story is ideal for younger children.

This play will be showing at the Barbican Theatre, starting November 21st. Tickets are selling quickly, so you'd better hurry!

Peter Pan

If you're looking for a magical experience, I highly suggest that you get your hands on some tickets to Peter Pan. This play, often performed as a musical, is another beautiful coming-of-age story. It's warm, enchanting, and heaps of fun. 

Peter Pan follows the adventures of a group of children on the magical island of Neverland, led by the playful Peter Pan. They meet pirates, a mischievous gang of young boys, and the famed fairy Tinker Bell.

Peter Pan can be seen in theatres around the world. You can see this production as a musical, a play, or even a pantomime.

Coney Island Christmas

Coney Island Christmas is a bit of an unorthodox holiday play. While it does feature Christmas as a theme, it's quite an inclusive story. It celebrates diversity, and it's sure to bring holiday cheer to the audience.

This musical follows Shirley Abramowitz, a young Jewish girl who is cast as Jesus in her school's holiday play. Later, an elderly Shirley retells this story to her great-granddaughter. It's a heartwarming, family-friendly tale for all, regardless of faith. 

Coney Island Christmas will hit the stage at the Geffen Playhouse in Los Angeles this holiday season. Grab tickets while you can, you don't want to miss this unique show.

The Cher Show

The Cher Show is a delightful Tony Award winner that will soon begin touring the United States this holiday season. It features fabulous music, over the top costumes, and colorful sets. So, add some sparkle to your holiday season with this one-of-a-kind show.

The Cher Show follows the life and career of the legendary musician Cher. The show includes original music, as well as the iconic catalog of Cher herself. Be careful, you may find yourself dancing in the aisles if you choose this show. 

This Broadway production will be touring the United States starting in November. If The Cher Show is coming to a theatre near you, scoop up those tickets quickly. You won't regret it, and it's sure to bring joy and magic to your holiday season.

Disney on Ice: Frozen and Encanto

This double feature is the must-see event of the 2023-2024 holiday season. It includes themes of family and coming-of-age, so it's a great show for kids. Disney on Ice is colorful, fantastical, and sure to fill you with a sense of magic and cheer. 

The wintery musical features productions of both Frozen and Encanto, two heartwarming and iconic stories about the importance of family. Costumes are mesmerizing, the sets are magical, and it all takes place on ice! 

Disney On Ice: Frozen and Encanto is touring the United States this holiday season. It's sparkly, family-friendly fun!

Christmas Time Shows and Beyond

Regardless of whether you celebrate Christmas or not, the holiday season is a magical time of year. So why not enjoy that magic with a trip to the theatre? 
If you enjoy the theatre, why stop with Christmas time shows, though? With OTL Seat Fillers, you'll have access to private invitations and free pairs of theatre tickets year-round. Enjoy the theatre beyond the holiday season with OTL Seat Fillers!