1812 Productions: ‘Dave
& Aaron Go to Work’
Nov. 29-Dec. 31
Plays and Players Theatre
Continuing their annual period-specific holiday show, 1812 has enlisted veteran locals Dave Jadico and Aaron Cromie to create a 1920s-inspired slapstick buddy comedy.
People’s Light &
Theatre Company:
‘This Wonderful Life’
Nov. 29-Dec. 23
Steinbright Stage
Atlanta playwright Steve Murray has a good thing going with “This Wonderful Life,” a feel-good hit holiday show that requires just one actor. During the past few years, artistic directors all over the country have found that combo irresistible. In a clever setup, an impassioned fan of “It’s a Wonderful Life” retells the entire plot, playing more than 30 characters along the way.
11th Hour Theatre Co.:
‘The Winter Wonderettes’
Dec. 7-30, Theatre Horizon
www.11thhourtheatre
company.org
This sequel to the kitschy hit “The Marvelous Wonderettes” features the same characters: four unpolished but pitch-perfect amateur singers. This time we find them crooning in their local hardware store, but nevermind the plot: This is simply an excuse to enjoy holiday hits from the ’50s and ’60s.
Story time
First Person StorySlams
Although First Person Arts hosts StorySlams year round, Philly needs the venting opportunity a little more in December. Laugh at those whose families are crazier than yours — and, sure, maybe take in a tale of peace on Earth and goodwill towards Philadelphians — at these shows:
Dec. 10: Family Ties (8:30 p.m., World Cafe Live)
Dec. 14: Home for the Holidays (7 p.m., the Art Museum)
Dec. 18: Gifts and Giving (8:30 p.m., L’Etage)
Must-see
Act II Playhouse: ‘Oh, What Fun’ and ‘Murray the Elf and the Case of the Missing Mistletoe’
Dec. 11-30
Act II Playhouse
This year, Act II has Christmas covered for young and old alike. By day, local playwright Bill D’Agostino debuts his latest play for children: Murray is a sprite detective, investigating a petty theft at the North Pole. By night, Act II favorite and local comedy legend Tony Braithwaite stars in “Oh What Fun,” yet another of his one-man variety shows — this time, with holiday flair sprinkled atop.
