Photo Flash: USO Families Get Free Performance of A CHRISTMAS STORY

Over 100 military guests and their families attended a special performance of A Christmas Story: The Musical at Citadel Theatre, 300 S. Waukegan Road, in Lake Forest the evening of Thrusday, November 17.

Prior to the show, the guests were greeted by Santa for a pre-show reception before joining Jean Shepherd's Ralphie in his epic quest for the Holy Grail of Christmas presents - a Red Ryder BB Gun.

Citadel Theatre, through a gift to the USO of Illinois, set aside the entire theatre for the benefit of the men and women stationed at the Great Lakes Naval Training Center and at USO of Illinois facilities throughout Illinois. Heal Team 6 - a non-profit organization providing event planning services for charitable activities - partnered with Citadel Theatre.

Also partnering with Citadel was Sweet Pete's of Lake Forest who provided goody bags (featuring their special Hand Pull Candy Canes) for all of the children of the USO families.

A Christmas Story: The Musical,directed by Robert D. Estrin will run through December 18, 2016 with performances Thursdays at 7:30, Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 8pm, and Sundays at 3pm. Additional matinees have been scheduled for Wednesdays December 7 & 14 at 11am and Saturdays December 10 & 17 at 1pm.

The show is based on the 1983 movie and the nostalgic writings of radio personality Jean Shepherd. Tickets are available online at www.CitadelTheatre.org or over the phone by calling the Citadel Theatre box office at 847.735.8554.

Check out photos of the event below: