(Photo: Stay2uned)
The magic of the holidays has arrived in the most spectacular way imaginable – and it’s staying put through December 27th right here in the heart of Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania.
Just over a week ago, I—along with a theatre full of delighted community members—was whisked straight into the middle of a beloved Christmas classic: A Charlie Brown Christmas. First aired on television in 1965, Charles M. Schulz’s gentle masterpiece has become a cherished tradition for families around the world (including mine) and the perfect way to officially kick off the season.
Move over, Santa—there’s a new holiday superstar in town. (Let’s be honest: we all know the real star of the show wears black-and-white spots and answers to Snoopy.)
On November 28th, the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble launched the second production of their 48th season by bringing A Charlie Brown Christmas to the stage—and what an unforgettable gift it was. While BTE is known for holiday staples like A Christmas Story and A Christmas Carol, this year they branched out with Schulz’s timeless story, and the result was pure magic.
It did not disappoint.
The talented ensemble of thespians & musicians alike—adults and an absolutely remarkable group of youth cast members—delivered performances that were funny, heartfelt, and brimming with joy. Every technical element (costumes, set design, lighting, sound, and choreography) was executed with brilliance and heart. Add in a crisp 45-minute runtime (the icing on the Christmas cookie, if you will), and you have the perfect show for audiences of all ages, especially the wiggliest little ones.
What truly blew me away was how seamlessly this gifted company commanded the intimate stage space at the Alvina Krause Theatre—especially the kids, who stole the show every bit as much as Snoopy does. And did I mention they had a live jazz trio playing Vince Guaraldi’s iconic score right onstage?
Because they did.
It was everything.
Notwithstanding, the near impossible task of choosing a singular, favorite moment from BTE’s rendition of A Charlie Brown Christmas is, just that, nearly impossible. Alas, one moment does, in fact, stick out from all of the rest.
What is more memorable than being seated in the sacred space that is the Alvina Krause Theatre, on a blistery, Sunday winter’s afternoon, with over one hundred people – lifting our collective voices in harmony with the immeasurably talented thespians of The Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble- to the timeless, cherished songs – known by all.
Allow yours truly to just say that, there wasn’t a single, dry eye in that audience, on that particular day.
If you’re anywhere near Bloomsburg between now and December 27th, do yourself and your family a favor: grab tickets to BTE’s A Charlie Brown Christmas. It’s just the right amount of extra holiday cheer that is much needed.
You’ll leave smiling, I promise.
Tickets can be purchased online at bte.org, or at the box office.
Performances run until December 27, 2025 at the Alvina Krause Theatre – located at 226 Center St. Bloomsburg, PA 17815
Thursday & Fridays: Performances begin at 7:30 PM
Saturday & Sundays: There is a matinee performance both days at 3:00 PM. Saturday also has a regular, evening performance at 7:30 PM. Sunday does not.
Hope to see you at the theatre this holiday season!