'Traditions of Christmas' returns to Coeur d'Alene

A show about traditions has become a holiday tradition itself in Coeur d’Alene.

“Traditions of Christmas” is marking its seventh annual appearance at the Salvation Army Kroc Center in Coeur d’Alene.

The show runs Dec. 7 to 23 with 7 p.m. evening shows and 3 p.m. matinees.

This Radio City Music Hall-style show includes Rockette-style choreographed kickline tap numbers, Santa’s workshop, a military tribute and a grand Nativity scene.

While the heart of the show remains the same from year to year, the producer changes a handful of scenes to keep the show fresh for those who attend annually. There are over 400 costumes in the show and each year new ones are added not only for the audience’s enjoyment but for the cast to have something to look forward to.

“Traditions of Christmas” has become a popular outing for groups — business associates, friends and generations of families — but the show has also become a tradition for families to perform in as well. This year, there are 13 families involved in the production including, six sets of siblings, three married couples and parents who get to sing with their adult children.

Due to the rehearsal schedule being only once a week for most roles, the singers can manage their busy lives while creating a special memory they can carry with them for a lifetime.

“There are over 70 cast members in the show and 20 people working behind the scenes, and while they are not all blood relatives, ‘Traditions of Christmas’ has become a family unto itself,” said Laura Little, producer and artistic director of the show.

Rick Taylor and his wife Beth return in 2018 as director and musical director. The choreography team is made of Brenda Blankenship working with the kick-line, Heidy Cartwright wearing two hats as she choreographs the Christmas Couples and the Kids, and Jonah Taylor choreographing a few special numbers with the Adult Chorus.

The show is produced by Laura Little Theatricals. This holiday season, Little is also producing “All Is Calm, The Christmas Truce of 1914” performed off-Broadway in New York City; and “It’s a Wonderful Life, The Live Radio Show” at the Best Western Plus Coeur d’Alene Inn. Little’s Broadway credits include, co-producer of the Tony Award-winning “Come From Away”, “Peter and the Starcatcher,” and “First Date.”

Tickets for “Traditions of Christmas” are on sale now, at www.TraditionsOfChristmasNW.com, or call the box office at 208 -763-0681. Discounted group tickets can also be purchased by calling the box office.