WEST SPRINGFIELD — The famous doorbell is no more, and the living room on the other side of the door is no longer there. And, for that matter, there is no door either.
It’s all part of the changing atmosphere at the Majestic Theater for “Home for the Holidays,” a family-friendly production that has become a popular tradition over the years.
The joyful holiday show returns to the West Springfield theater from Dec. 4-21.
Similar in style to nostalgic holiday specials of years past, headlined by Andy Williams and Perry Como, “Home for the Holidays” features Pioneer Valley-based performers from plays and other shows presented at the Majestic. It is co-hosted by singer Ray Guillemette, Jr., who has headlined countless “A Ray of Elvis” sold-out shows at the Majestic; and Ben Ashley, a Majestic favorite who has performed in several hit shows including “Mamma Mia” and “Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story.”
Joining Guillemette and Ashley on stage will be singer/songwriter Madison Curbelo, a 2024 semifinalist on NBC’s “The Voice,” along with several veteran Majestic performers including Michael Garcia, Christine Greene, Steven Sands, Kait Rankins, Lori Efford, as well as a special appearance by the man in the red suit himself — Santa Claus.
Myka Plunkett is directing “Home for the Holidays” for the first time.
“Yes, we’ve lost the doorbell and we’re not in a living room any longer. We’ve taken the show out to the streets where a big block party is happening for the community. It’s less of a real space but some magical place that brings you inside of a warm memory,” Plunkett said.
The concept is the same as past shows, which featured Guillemette answering the doorbell, inviting his guests in and then chatting and singing some songs. This time around he arrives at the block party first and welcomes others as they arrive.
Majestic Theater’s associate producing director Sue Dziura asked Plunkett to direct the show and she didn’t hesitate.
“I’m a great lover of the classic holiday songs and also the modern Christmas tunes. I think we all bring different strengths to every production. I think my strength as a performer is to bring levity and humor to things we know and love. I really wanted to hone in on the sing-along aspect of holiday tunes that have lived in in our hearts and on television and radio for many generations,” Dziura said.
Yet another change, Kyle Langlois is the new musical director for the spirited program. He will be bringing in musicians Jacob Nichols, Cliff Schofer and Don Rovero for the show.
“I’m excited to bring new ideas, voices and sounds to ‘Home for the Holidays.’ It has been a very collaborative effort with the cast, who are bringing their own thoughts and perspectives to our song choices this year. It’s going to be an amazing show that honors the classics and other holiday songs with some new spins on ‘Jingle Bell Rock,’ ‘Feliz Navidad,’ and ‘Let It Snow,’ Langlois said.
He noted audiences can hear new and old songs from different genres, including the show’s signature song, “(There’s No Place Like) Home for the Holidays,” “Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy” as originally performed by David Bowie and Bing Crosby, “Sugar & Booze” from a jazzy Christmas album by Ana Gasteyer, “Put A Little Love in Your Heart” heard in the big screen movie “Scrooged,” as well as “Where Are You Christmas,” and “Santa Tell Me” by pop singer and “Wicked” star Ariana Grande, among others.
Rising star Curbelo was asked by Dziura to be a part of this year’s show.
“I did theater when I was a kid but strayed into making pop music, so I haven’t been part of a cast for a long time. When Sue asked me, it was a no brainer to say ‘yes’ because I hadn’t been involved in a theatrical production like ‘Home for the Holidays’ for so long. And I I just love Christmas music. So, it was a beautiful opportunity to perform with a wonderful cast, and I love the people at the Majestic. As for the people who come to see the show, it’s a nice thing to do for the holidays and they are going to love it,” Curbelo said.
She will be singing a pop Christmas tune made famous by Arianna Grande and will have a solo in an ensemble performance of “Do You Hear What I Hear.” She will also share a duet with Steven Sands titled “A Christmas to Remember,” recorded by Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers.
Tickets start at $28 for adults, and $15 for children 10 and under, and are available by visiting or calling the Majestic Theater Box Office at 413-747-7797 during its hours of operation, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tickets can also be purchased online at majestictheater.com.
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