We’re accustomed to local theater groups cashing in on tried-and-true tales for the holiday season. But two of Salt Lake City’s best-known stage companies are taking slightly different approaches to family-friendly fare.
Salt Lake Acting Company, in fact, is presenting its first family show ever with its musical adaptation of P.D. Eastman’s classic children’s book Go, Dog, Go! Jerry Rapier directs a show recommended, as the press release suggests, “for immature audiences”—but there’s still a special message in all those big dogs, little dogs, red dogs, blue dogs, etc., gathering for one dog party.
Pioneer Theatre Company, meanwhile, brings us the theatrical version of a film that has delighted a generation. In A Christmas Story, we all know what little Ralphie wants for Christmas— and the warning refrain he gets from the adults in his life. Experience the nostalgic wonders and frustrations of childhood Christmas in a whole new way.
Go, Dog, Go! @ Salt Lake Acting Company, 168 W. 500 North, 801-363-7522, Dec. 4-27. SaltLakeActingCompany.org
A Christmas Story @ Pioneer Theatre Company, 300 S. 1400 East, 801-581-6961, Dec. 4-20. PioneerTheatre.org