Hell in a Handbag Productions Presents Rudolph the Red-Hosed Reindeer, Previews 12/2

Hell in a Handbag Productions is proud to remount David Cerda's parody of the classic children's television special "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer", now in it's 13th year!

"Rudolph, The Red-Hosed Reindeer is a story very near and dear to my heart. I immediately related to the original story as a child, as did any kid who felt different. I'm obviously not the only one who feels this way, given the shows long shelf life. We had our first reading in 1997 and people come back year after year. It's really amazing," says Cerda.

The North Pole is in crisis. Nobody believes in Santa anymore! Elves have been laid off and the morale and morals are at an all time low. Santa (Michael Hampton) devises a plan to save his empire by diving headfirst into the cesspool that is REALITY TELEVISON with the North Pole Network. Join Rudolph Alex Grelle (Rudolph 2009, The Rip Nelson Halloween Spooktacular), and his misfit friends - Herbie the 'not gay enough' elf (Dan Hickey) who wants to be a dentist and Yukon Cornelia (Lori Lee returning for her 7th year!), the butch prospector with a deep, dark secret - as they search for happiness... and run away from the horrible new North Pole Network. Returning to the show are Barbara Figgins, Jennifer Shine, David Besky, Chad, and Christopher Carpenter returning as Sam the Snowman. New to the Rudolph this year are Danni Smith, Marc James, and Chad Ramsey.

Ensemble member Derek Czaplewski is again directing Rudolph, The Red-Hosed Reindeer this year and Ed Jones is returning as the Santa's downtrodden alcoholic wife. Terry McCarthy and David Cerda also reprise their roles as the nosy reindeer ladies form hell.

As always David Cerda has fun new treats in his bag for his Rudolph, and this year the changes are significant. The subject of bullying, coming to terms with ones self and facing the challenges of what can seem like an uncaring family is what inspired the Dec. 4 opening night of Rudolph the Red-Hosed Reindeer benefit for The Trevor Project.

The Trevor Project is the leading national organization focused on crisis and suicide prevention efforts among lesbian, gay, transgender and questioning youth. 50% of ticket sales to the opening night of Rudolph the Red-Hosed Reindeer will be donated to The Trevor Project and each ticket buyer will receive a drink compliments of Mary's Attic.

It doesn't matter if you've been naughty or nice this year... you definitely want to catch the show that Chris Jones (Chicago Tribune) dubbed "an ideal holiday escape for anyone who detests the commercialism of traditional Christmas shows And remember... "Being Normal Isn't Normal At All!"
Digital press photos are available at our website: www.handbagproductions.org

Need more Chicago Theatre News in your life?
Sign up for all the news on the Summer season, discounts & more...