"a sacred part of a Chicago Christmas"
-Chicago Sun-Times
Highly Recommended "pleases in every way"
-Chicago Sun-Times
"a splendid holiday treat"
-Centerstage Chicago
Highly Recommended "make Schooner a family tradition"
-Chicago Critic
-Chicago Theater Beat
"the entire cast puts their heart and soul into creating a holiday memory."
-Chicago Now
"will fill your heart with emotion and bring a tear to your eye"
-Chicago Critic
"This is a production that you need to fit into your busy schedules"
-Around Town Chicago
The Christmas Schooner
November 16th -
New Year's Eve
2011
Wednesdays at 3:00 and 7:30
Thursdays at 7:30
Fridays at 7:30
Saturdays at 3:00 and 7:30
Sundays at 3:00
Special additional performances the week of Christmas thru New Year's Eve.
Click the Buy Tickets button for specific dates, times, and pricing.
Call the box office at
773-325-1700
for tickets and more information
Reserved Seating
Chicago’s Holiday Tradition Sails into the Mercury Theater!
The whole family will enjoy this heart-warming story of the first Christmas tree ship, and the people who risked their lives to fill Chicago with the Christmas spirit. A favorite musical tradition for many years, this all-new production is helmed by the award winning team of L. Walter Stearns (director), Eugene Dizon (musical director) and Brenda Didier (choreographer).
THE CHRISTMAS SCHOONER is based on a beloved Chicago story. The ‘Rouse Simmons’, a Great Lakes schooner was known as “The Christmas Tree Ship.” Its captain risked life and limb to transport fir trees from Michigan's Upper Peninsula to Chicago's German immigrants during the late 19th century. A timely and stirring tale of love and loss, THE CHRISTMAS SCHOONER reminds us of tradition, and our responsibility to celebrate the living while honoring our heritage.
THE CHRISTMAS SCHOONER is a powerful, moving story with an exquisite score by Chicago favorites, John Reeger (book), and Julie Shannon (music and lyrics). The musical has entertained audiences in hundreds of productions including a twelve year run at Chicago’s Bailiwick Repertory Theatre. It has been called “a grand family tradition” by the Chicago Tribune. The Chicago Sun-Times raved, “A touching slice of life that is an inheritance to be treasured.”
This all new production is being reconceived by the Jeff-award winning team of L. Walter Stearns (director), Eugene Dizon (musical director) and Brenda Didier (choreographer). The scenic design is by Jacqueline and Richard Penrod, with costumes designed by Carol Blanchard and lighting designed by Jason Epperson.