Jerry Cason portrays Kris Kringle in LifeHouse Theater’s original musical “Miracle on 34th Street” (November 21 – December 27, 2026). [photo by Bruce Manson]Doris (Jana Smith) learns that Kris Kringle (Jerry Cason) will be staying with Fred (Nathan Smith) in LifeHouse Theater’s original musical “Miracle on 34th Street” (November 21 – December 27, 2026). [photo by Bruce Manson]Mr. Shellhammer (Stephen Skiles) attempts to tell Kris Kringle (Jerry Cason) which toys to suggest to the children in LifeHouse Theater’s original musical “Miracle on 34th Street” (November 21 – December 27, 2026). [photo by Bruce Manson]Fred (Nathan Smith) pleads with Doris (Jana Smith) to have faith in him to defend Kris in LifeHouse Theater’s original musical “Miracle on 34th Street” (November 21 – December 27, 2026). [photo by Bruce Manson]Kris Kringle (Jerry Cason) accepts Doris’ (Jana Smith) offer to be the Macy’s store Santa in LifeHouse Theater’s original musical “Miracle on 34th Street” (November 21 – December 27, 2026). [photo by Bruce Manson]Kris (Jerry Cason) encourages Fred (Nathan Smith) to keep bringing the Christmas spirit to Doris and Susan in LifeHouse Theater’s original musical “Miracle on 34th Street” (November 21 – December 27, 2026). [photo by Bruce Manson]
Beloved holiday classic returns in an uplifting original musical celebrating faith, family and the true spirit of Christmas
REDLANDS, CA — The wonder of Christmas comes alive as LifeHouse Theater welcomes the holiday season with the return of its beloved original musical adaptation of “Miracle on 34th Street,” opening Saturday, November 21, and continuing through Sunday, December 27, 2026. Filled with all the beloved characters, delightful humor, heartwarming music and an inspiring message of faith, this cherished Christmas favorite promises an unforgettable holiday experience for the entire family.
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Christmas in New York City takes an unexpected turn when a kindly old gentleman hired to portray Santa Claus at Macy’s insists that he is the real Kris Kringle. His remarkable claim delights children, bewilders adults and creates quite a commotion throughout the city. As questions about his identity grow, an extraordinary courtroom showdown unfolds, leaving everyone wondering whether this mysterious gentleman might actually be telling the truth.
Blending laughter, romance and touching moments of discovery, “Miracle on 34th Street” explores the power of believing in something greater than ourselves. As the characters discover that faith, love and hope cannot always be measured by what the eyes can see, the story reveals a deeper message about the true meaning of Christmas.
Inspired by the classic 1947 novel by Valentine Davies, LifeHouse’s original musical adaptation features a script, music and lyrics by Debra Elizabeth Brooks, with additional music and lyrics by Dustin Ceithamer and Wayne R. Scott. The production combines original songs with traditional Christmas carols to create a festive theatrical experience that captures both the nostalgic charm of the beloved story and the inspirational message at the heart of all LifeHouse Theater’s productions.
“All the fun, familiar characters we have come to know and cherish for generations will be part of this musical,” observes LifeHouse founder and president Wayne Scott. “This is truly a heartwarming rendition of a family favorite and a wonderful way to celebrate the Christmas season.”
“Miracle on 34th Street” is directed by longtime LifeHouse performer Leah Simpson, with musical direction by Rylan Spencer and choreography by Michael Milligan. The production’s creative team also includes costumer Eve Celis, set designers Jacob and Luke Michel, and Josiah Evans, overseeing lighting and sound.
The production features a talented cast of performers from throughout the Inland Empire, led by Jerry Cason as the lovable and mysterious Kris Kringle. Cason brings a special authenticity to the role, having professionally portrayed Santa Claus for many years at numerous organizations, parades and special events throughout the region. Charlotte Simpson portrays Susan Walker, the young girl whose Christmas wish extends far beyond toys and presents, while Jana Smith plays her skeptical mother, Doris Walker. Nathan Smith appears as Fred Gailey, the charming attorney determined to defend Kris and help restore the family’s faith in the impossible.
Adding humor and colorful personalities to the story are Morgan Evans as the scheming Mr. Sawyer, Stephen Skiles as Macy’s flustered toy department manager Mr. Shellhammer, and Nick Diliberto as department store owner Mr. Macy. Chris Rehling and Brett Scrima share the role of prosecuting attorney Thomas Mara, while Larry Wilson portrays Judge Henry Harper, who faces the extraordinary challenge of determining whether the man before him truly is Santa Claus.
“Miracle on 34th Street” opens Saturday, November 21, and continues through Sunday, December 27, 2026. Performances are Fridays at 7 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. A special Thursday evening performance will be presented December 17 at 7 p.m. There will be no performance on Christmas Day, Friday, December 25.
“Miracle on 34th Street” is just one of three spectacular holiday experiences awaiting audiences at LifeHouse Theater this Christmas season! The festivities also include the immersive, walk-through adventure of “Bethlehem Marketplace”(December 9–19), which transports guests back to the sights and sounds of ancient Bethlehem, and the return of the beloved LifeHouse holiday tradition, “A Christmas Song In My Heart,” presented for two performances only on December 13 and 20. Together, these three special productions offer families unforgettable opportunities to celebrate the joy, wonder and true meaning of Christmas.
Tickets for all events are available online at lifehousetheater.com/tickets or through the LifeHouse Theater Box Office at (909) 335-3037.
Guests looking for additional savings can take advantage of LifeHouse’s evening performance pricing or the theater’s popular Saturday Night Date Night Special, featuring two front-section tickets, two cookies and two drinks for just $50. The Date Night Special is available Saturday evenings except opening night.
LifeHouse Theater’s 33rd season continues into the new year with “The Lion, The Witch, And The Wardrobe,” “The Rise of King David,” “The Secret Garden,” “Treasure Island,” “Cinderella” and “Acts of the Apostles.” Complete season information and performance dates are available at lifehousetheater.com.
LifeHouse Theater is located at 1135 N. Church Street in Redlands, adjacent to Redlands Christian School. Free parking is available behind the theater. For tickets or additional information, contact the LifeHouse Theater Box Office at (909) 335-3037 or visit lifehousetheater.com.
