Who is Santa Claus really? Is his actual name St. Nicholas, Father Christmas, or Odin? Why does he leave treats in stockings? And how does he deliver toys around the world in one night? These questions and many more are answered in The Santa Clues, presented by Virginia Repertory Theatre.
The play is part of the Theatre’s 2023-2024 Children’s Season and is currently showing at the Virginia Rep Center for Arts and Education Jessie Bogese Theatre. Special Agents Drake and Fletcher, played by PJ Freebourn and Joey Gravins, respectively, work for the Bureau of Oddities, researching the mysterious, supernatural, and unexplained. Their current search is for the true identity and origins of the jolly man in red – Santa Claus.
Presenting multiple origin stories that span from ancient Turkey to Norse mythology, the agents try to uncover the truth about Santa Claus. But the show is far from a dry history lesson. Slapstick humor and shenanigans keep the audience entertained and laughing while also learning some unfamiliar history. While there are only three actors, they each play multiple characters. Freebourn and Gravins literally wear many different hats throughout the show, not to mention the use of several puppets as main characters. Kids will enjoy the silly humor and seeing Santa Claus on stage, while adults will enjoy the history and a hilarious reworking of “Danger Zone” complete with a music video straight out of the eighties. The recitation of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” near the finale was also quite impressive and moving.
The Santa Clues is recommended for ages six to ten, but it will appeal to kids and adults alike. My five-year-old son enjoyed the over-the-top humor and storytelling, giggling when Agent Fletcher had trouble climbing back onstage and pointing excitedly when Santa finally appeared. The show runs about fifty minutes and does not include an intermission – long enough to keep my son’s attention, but also short enough that he didn’t get antsy or lose interest.
Virginia Rep Center Jessie Bogese Theatre
The Santa Clues was originally presented by The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis and directed by Todd D. Norris, who now serves as the director of education for Virginia Rep as well as the director of the Richmond show. Be sure to read RFM’s recent interview with Norris about the show and its intergenerational appeal.
The play is showing at the Virginia Rep Center for Arts and Education, the one-year-old new home of the children’s theatre. The main 650-seat auditorium is named in memory of Jessica Bogese after a donation from the Bogese family. Our visit to the theatre was especially touching as it was on Jessie’s birthday and we happened to be sitting next to her mother. We couldn’t leave without paying our respects and thanking her for helping provide a beautiful space for family-friendly live theatre and entertainment.
The Virginia Rep Center provides more space for camps, classes, and workshops offered by Virginia Rep. The main entrance off Hermitage Road leads to a large lobby with chandeliers, costume exhibits, and floor-to-ceiling windows. The building also offers a dedicated off-street parking lot and easily accessible restrooms, including a family restroom, located off the lobby on the same level as the main theatre.
The Santa Clues runs through December 31, with multiple days and various times offered, allowing you to choose a performance that works for your schedule. Tickets are available from the box office, which opens two hours prior to curtain, or online at Virginia Rep.
