My daughter is already a huge fan of OCT’s teen improv troupe, so she practically skipped up the stairs to the Brunish Theatre to watch Oregon Children’s Theatre’s Merry Happy Everything! But witty comedy is only one part of this holiday variety show celebrating, well, everything (even Groundhog Day got a shoutout). Each performance includes live music performed by teens and music director Mak Kastelic. You’ll also hear holiday storytelling from a local artist. Actor and comedian Talon Bigelow was the special guest during our trip. If you have Red Yarn fans in the house, he’ll be there December 5 at 11a. For the full list of guest artists, see OCT’s website.
The first thing my daughter said when we walked into the theater was, “Oh, I love the cozy spot!” The set design was festive and inviting, and the show opened in a Mr. Rogers-esque fashion, down to the donning of a sweater.
Spoiler alert: there’s a sing-along at the end. The cast invites you to scan a QR code for the lyrics, but if your phone is as slow to turn on as mine, you may want to do this before the show begins. The Merry Happy Everything! theme song was our personal favorite.
Oh yes, and there’s snow. Also, bubbles. Your kids won’t want to miss it!
If you’re looking for a fun holiday outing, Merry Happy Everything! is a cozy way to welcome the season.
Buy tickets here. Show runs November 19-December 19, appropriate for all ages. All ticket holders, regardless of age, are required to show proof of full COVID vaccination or a negative test result (within 48 hours) from a healthcare provider for entry into the theatre.
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