Preview: 'Judy's' Delicious Holiday Treat!

The Holiday Season is a time that is rich in entertainment offerings. The tried and true such as "The Nutcracker" and "A Christmas Carol" seem to be everywhere along with numerous concert performances and choral presentations. While I enjoy all of these, I also am on the lookout for something a little bit different. Something that creates a fresh and new interest. "Judy's Scary Little Christmas" certainly fills the bill.

Once upon a time there were many annual musical variety specials that delighted millions on CBS, NBC and ABC. They were often hosted by beloved entertainers and the guests were a wonderful array of singers, dancers and comedians. Among the headliners were Bing Crosby, Andy Williams, and Perry Como to name but a few.

Imagine, if you will, such a special hosted by the legendary Judy Garland and featuring such guests as Ethel Merman, Bing Crosby and Liberace. Add to that mix some unexpected names such as Joan Crawford, Richard Nixon and legendary writer Lillian Hellman, not to mention "Death"!

That's some of what you get in "Judy's Scary Little Christmas", a sharply funny, bitingly witty, sometimes satiric and unexpectedly surprising musical that arrives in Manchester at the Majestic Theatre from December 5 through 8, for five performances. It's unlike anything you've ever seen before or are likely to see again, unless the talented writers (Jim Webber and David Church) and composer (Joe Patrick Ward) decide to do a sequel.

The Los Angeles Times declared, "Magical! A side-splitting musical parody...wickedly funny." and The Hollywood Reporter described it as "A true holiday treat!"

Judy Garland has been much in the news lately. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the release of the classic, "The Wizard of Oz" and the new film, "Judy" has been getting a lot of Oscar buzz in the press. There couldn't be a better time to share a little holiday cheer with the first area showing in a decade, of what should be required holiday viewing.

The Majestic is located in Manchester at 880 Page St. You can visit their website at www.majestictheatre.net or call for tickets at 603-669-7469. Performances are Thursday - Saturday (December 5 - 7) at 7 PM with matinees on Saturday (7th) and Sunday (8th) at 2 PM.

Don't be the Grinch at the Christmas party who has not seen the freshest, funniest and most tuneful holiday offering around. (Not recommended for very young children)