David Sedaris is a bestselling author of titles such as Calypso and Me Talk Pretty One Day, but also a regular contributor to The New Yorker. He is known for his snarky realism and blunt overview of life. The Santaland Diaries is no different. This essay comes from a true account of Sedaris’ two-year stint working as a holiday elf at Macy’s department store.
“Before we staged it, it was a tradition that around Christmas, Luke and I would cuddle up and read David Sedaris’ essay out loud to each other. It’s been a blast bringing it to life on stage.” – Cheryl Skafte
The Santaland Diaries is an Underground Theatre favorite, as this year will be the third year in a row we have done the show. Over the years, The Underground has established a reputation for being the epitome of black box theatre; blunt, close-encounters, and known for showcasing the ability to get right down to the ruthless core of what theatre really is.
“Performing it has become the tradition now. As long as people keep showing up, we want to keep the tradition going.” – Luke Morave
Sedaris’ essay loses none of its charm being transferred from page to stage, and we’re delighted to be putting it on for another holiday season.
Both Luke Moravec and Cheryl Skafte have put on the show every year, Moravec acting and Skafte directing. Moravec plays Crumpet, a begrudging holiday elf at Macy’s who recounts his escapades with hilarious bluntness.
This show will particularly resonate with anyone who has worked retail during the holidays, but is a must-see for everyone who enjoys a realistic take on just how hard the holiday season can be.
SEE THE HOLIDAY FAVORITE WHILE TICKETS LAST!
- What: The Santaland Diaries by David Sedaris
- Where: The Underground Theatre (506 West Michigan Street)
- When: December 12-14, 2019
- Showtimes: Every performance at 7:30pm
- Tickets: $20
- Purchase: www.duluthunderground.org or 218.733.7555 (M-F, 10am-6pm)