Roasting Chestnuts

A family-friendly musical comedy treat, Roasting Chestnuts, by Amy Binns-Calvey (Book) and Bonnie Shadrake (Musical arrangements and new lyrics), has become a hilarious Chicago holiday staple since its debut in 1997 at the Royal George Theatre. It is an affectionate musical spoof of a 1970’s-era “home for the holidays” TV special, starring Patricia Musker as Gina Oswald, a former child star who never quite became the next Judy Garland except in her own mind. Touring the nation’s casino boats and hotel lounges with her eight-member singing/dancing choir, Gina arrives in St. Charles with her new manager in tow, a repertoire of holiday “chestnuts” to sing, spectacular costumes to wear, and an unexpected surprise visitor from her past.

The 2004 production of Roasting Chestnuts includes never-before-seen musical numbers and dialogue, including a chance to have your letter to Santa read onstage! The entire creative team from the hit 2003 production of Roasting Chestnuts returns for this new production at Pheasant Run Resort, including director Bill Jenkins, musical director Bonnie Shadrake, and choreographer Mark Goldweber of the Joffrey Ballet.