‘White Christmas’ coming to San Diego Musical Theatre

San Diego will be celebrating with a “White Christmas.”

“Irving Berlin’s White Christmas” is being performed by the San Diego Musical Theatre, opening Thursday, Dec. 11 and running through Sunday, Dec. 21 at the North Park Theatre, 2891 University Avenue in San Diego.

The show is a musical performance based off the classic movie, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, said show director Todd Nielson.

Featuring 17 Irving Berlin musical numbers, the musical debuted on Broadway 10 years ago. This will be the third year that San Diego Musical Theatre will produce “White Christmas.” “It’s fast becoming a new San Diego holiday tradition,” said Nielson. “It’s a great time of year to bring our (acting) family together, and bring (the show) to San Diego. It’s kind of like our holiday Christmas card to San Diego.”

Nielson originally directed the show several years ago in Thousand Oaks, where it was spotted and brought to the San Diego Musical Theatre.

White Christmas stars Todd DuBail as Bob Wallace, Allison Spratt Pierce as Betty Haynes, Jeffrey Scott Parsons as Phil Davis and Tro Shaw as Judy Haynes.

The cast also includes a large ensemble, featuring Joy Allen, Jeni Baker, Amy Beth Batchelor, Philip Cobb, William Cobb, Crystal Davidson, Janie D’Avignon, Karla Franko, John Gamboa, Max Gidaley, Siri Hafso, Danny Hansen, Kyle Hawk, April Henry, Ed Hollingsworth, Allison Knight, Andrew Koslow, Danielle Levas, Paul Morgavo, Joy Newbegin, Jeremy Shull, Claire Scheper, Doug Schmitt, Debra Wanger and John Westcott.

Nielson said audiences shouldn’t expect a traditional musical when they come see “White Christmas.” “It’s more like watching a variety show from the ‘50s,” said Nielson. “With a full, 22-piece big band on stage and smaller set pieces, it brings the whole thing together beautifully. You don’t get too many opportunities to go to a show with a full big band.”

In addition to the 17 musical numbers, the show also contains a lot of dancing, with everything from tap to jazz to ballroom. “The show has terrific choreography,” said Nielson. “Great production numbers.”

Show times are 7:30 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 8 p.m. Friday, 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. Tickets for “White Christmas” range from $42 to $72. Children 16 and under save $10. There are also discounts for seniors and students.

Equity and Actor’s Alliance may purchase up to two tickets at half price.

For tickets, call 858-560-5740 or visit SDMT online at www.sdmt.org.

Group discounts for parties of 10 or more are available by calling 858-560-5740.