Oak Lawn Community Theatre Debuts Family Christmas Musical

Dave Heilmann, a name familiar to many Oak Lawn residents, has penned a new holiday musical for the whole family that is destined to become the next Christmas classic.

“Believe In Your Elf” is a humorous and heartwarming tale set a few hectic days before Christmas. As the hysterical elves and tap-dancing reindeer rush to be ready for Santa’s Christmas Eve flight, we hear the stories of three families who each have their struggles heading into Christmas, including one little girl whose father is off to war and her only wish is to see her daddy on Christmas.

Santa does his best but needs the magic of one little elf named Eddy, who leaves “the shelf” and teaches us that there are no bounds to what we can give if we follow our hearts and just believe.

Songs include a new version of “Jingle Bells”, “Eddy Got Run Over By A Reindeer," “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town," “All I Want for Christmas is You," “Sleigh Ride Together With You," “Believe” (Polar Express)," “Jingle Bell Rock” the tearjerker “Bring Him Home Santa," and many more. The large cast of adults, teens, and children come together for a terrific show for which will make you laugh, cry, and walk out filled with Christmas spirit.

The show features many children from the community and is written, directed and produced by Heilmann. Erica Heilmann does the assistant director honors, with choreography by Dawn Farrell and musical direction by Jennifer Dale.

The Oak Lawn  Park District Community Theatre productions generally sell out fast, so reserve your tickets now by calling the box office at 708-857-2200. Tickets are $21 for adults; $17 for children 12 and under.

“Believe In Your Elf” opens Thursday, Dec. 12 and runs through Sunday, Dec. 15, with matinee and evening performances Saturday and Sunday. Evening shows start at 8 p.m.; matinees at 3 p.m.

Performances will be at the Oak View Center, 4625 W. 110th St., Oak Lawn.