A Christmas Story. Many of us have likely seen the classic 1983 film, or perhaps the 2017 live version that appeared on FOX, but the National Tour of A Christmas Story: The Musical, currently playing at Boston’s Wang Theatre, blows its predecessors out of the water. The show centers around 9-year old Ralphie Parker‘s quest to obtain a “Red Ryder Carbine Action BB Gun,” navigating disapproving parents, school bullies, and the horror of receiving a C+ on his Christmas essay assignment.

Anyone at FHS could sympathize with the latter (timed writings are the bane of every student’s existence). Mid-December is already upon us, yet many FHS students just aren’t feeling the holiday spirit.

“I just feel so overwhelmed between college applications and homework. If I didn’t see the lights on the houses driving home, I’d probably forget that it’s even the holidays!” shares senior Vedika Vinayak.

A Christmas Story: The Musical is the perfect cure for a lack of holiday cheer. The sets beautifully capture the nostalgic view of the narrator, an older version of Ralphie (convincingly portrayed by Chris Carsten) as he reminisces on the events of his 1940 Christmas in a small Indiana town. This show is perfect for all ages, jam-packed with exciting dance numbers occasionally interspersed with slower tunes. Stand-out numbers included “Ralphie to the Rescue” and “A Major Award,” both of which were classic glitz-and-glam numbers based on the overactive imaginations of Ralphie and his father, respectively.

Worth mentioning is the fantastic lighting design that complements every scene. From sparkling leg-lamp light displays to sudden washes of color to indicate whether or not a scene was taking place in Ralphie’s (often wandering) mind, the lighting added a whole other dimension to the already stellar performance. The same praise can’t be extended to the sound design however; while the live orchestra played beautifully, the actors’ microphones had a tendency to cut out at the start of each scene.

The only other unfortunate aspect of the show was a lack of programs. A digital program was available, but it’s just not the same as a printed Playbill. It’s no longer a photo opportunity or a souvenir, and makes the show feel less personal. But seriously, don’t let the no-program policy deter you from seeing this amazing show, one of the funniest and most wholesomely entertaining touring productions to visit Boston in a long while.

“I couldn’t stop smiling the whole time. I loved the cast and the costumes!” says Katie Wylie, who attended the December 10 performance with me.

The tour will only be in Boston until December 19, so be sure to grab your tickets soon. Both matinee and evening performances are available. Note: you must be vaccinated or provide proof of a negative COVID test in order to attend.