The magic of the North Pole and Santa’s workshop comes to life at the Bristol Riverside Theatre (BRT) in a whimsical musical celebrating the spirit of giving and the magic of the season.
BRT welcomes the holiday season with the world premiere of The Nice List, a lively musical filled with songs, humor, and plenty of Christmas cheer. This merry new production invites audiences of all ages to embark on a cheerful adventure straight from Santa’s North Pole. Emmy Award-winning director Alan Muraoka (Sesame Street) leads this joyful production with music direction by Gary Adler (Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Broadway’s Avenue Q), running Tuesday, December 9 through Sunday, December 28.
When Santa announces he must leave for an important trip, he puts two eager elves in charge of the all important Nice List. Excited to prove themselves, the elves dive right into their new responsibility, but soon discover that checking the list twice is no easy task. As names begin quickly disappearing and the list dwindles to single digits, chaos unfolds at the North Pole. Overflowing with catchy tunes, colorful characters, and dazzling choreography, The Nice List brings a playful new spin to the meaning of Christmas spirit.
“This show captures the joy and wonder of Christmas in a way that brings out the kid in everyone,” said Producing Director Ken Kaissar. “The Nice List celebrates the fun of the season while reminding us that kindness never goes out of style.”
The Bristol Riverside Theatre production is the world premiere of The Nice List, so audiences will be the first to experience this future classic.
Credit: Bristol Riverside Theatre
At the heart of The Nice List, Santa (Korie Lee Blossey) travels the world to spread Christmas cheer, leaving his elves in charge. Chestnut (Aaron J. Albano), the ambitious and overconfident Head Elf, and Gumdrop (Diana Huey), the ever-optimistic team player, take on the challenge with help from their fellow workshop companions; Raisin (Michelle Dowdy), the grumpy but big-hearted caretaker; Cookie (Jennifer Barnhart), the quick-witted cowgirl; Marzipan (Kennedy Kanagawa), the dramatic dreamer; and Fruitcake (Brad Weinstock), the no-nonsense problem-solver. Together, they learn that the true spirit of Christmas is not about being perfectly nice but about friendship, teamwork, and believing in one another.
BRT’s productions offer special pre- and post-show engagements, included with the ticket price, for guests to create a memorable night out. The December 11 opening night performance is followed by a light reception where patrons can revel in the evening’s holiday magic. Friday Festival on December 12 offers an added night of celebration, and guests can also enjoy Wine Down Wednesday on December 17, with complimentary wine and desserts. Thirsty Thursday on December 18 invites audiences to enjoy festive cocktails before the show and toast to the holiday season.
The Nice List tickets range from $20 to $68 and can be purchased through the BRT box office or online. Click here to learn more about The Nice List. visit or call the box office at 215-785-0100.
BRT is located at 120 Radcliffe Street in Bristol.