Hold onto your holiday hats – Chevy Chase, the king of comedic chaos himself, is storming into Sioux Falls for a festive extravaganza that'll have you laughing all the way to Christmas!
Picture this: It's shaping up to be the most joyous holiday season since those iconic tap-dancing duets from Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. The beloved patriarch of the Griswold family is gracing our town with his presence during the yuletide festivities.
Mark your calendars for November 29th, when the hilarious comedian and actor Chevy Chase will make an appearance at the Washington Pavilion. He'll be hosting a one-of-a-kind screening of his timeless holiday gem, 'National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.' For those new to the scene, this 1983 film is a hilarious romp through the misadventures of the Griswold clan, packed with slapstick humor, family mishaps, and enough Christmas spirit to light up the darkest winter night – think exploding lights, runaway squirrels, and unforgettable quotes that have become holiday staples.
But here's where it gets even more exciting: Following the movie, Chase will participate in a lively Q&A session, sharing juicy behind-the-scenes anecdotes from the film's production. And to top it off, his wife, Jayni Chase, will be joining the fun, adding a personal touch to the evening.
Tickets are reasonably priced starting at $57, and you can snag them right on the Washington Pavilion's website at https://www.washingtonpavilion.org/events/. For the ultimate fan experience, a select number of VIP tickets are up for grabs, which come with the perk of a personal photo op with Chase after the show – perfect for capturing that Griswold-level grin!
And this is the part most people miss – the Washington Pavilion isn't stopping at just one star-studded event. Through the end of the year, they're rolling out a lineup of shows that'll keep the entertainment flowing. Let's break it down:
First up, orchestral delights: Catch 'Psycho: Film and Orchestra' on October 25th, where the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra brings Hitchcock's thriller to life with live music. Then, on November 9th, enjoy the Fall Chamber Music Concert for some refined, intimate tunes. Wrapping up the orchestral series is 'An American in Paris' on November 22nd, a vibrant ballet-inspired performance that'll transport you to the City of Lights.
Musicals are stealing the spotlight too: 'Back to the Future' runs from October 14th to 19th, letting you time-travel through 80s nostalgia with songs and dances. And for a rockin' rivalry, 'Beatles vs. Stones' hits the stage on November 14th, pitting the Fab Four against the Rolling Stones in a musical showdown – talk about a battle of the bands!
Dance enthusiasts, rejoice: The World Ballet Co. presents 'The Great Gatsby Ballet' on October 26th, a graceful adaptation of the Jazz Age classic that blends opulent costumes with sweeping choreography.
Concerts abound: Groove to The Waddington Brothers on October 28th for some soulful harmonies. Rodney Carrington brings his stand-up comedy infused with country tunes on November 16th. And relive the hits with the Little River Band on November 21st, known for classics like 'Lady' and 'Cool Change.'
For a spooky twist, The Good Night Theatre Collective's 'Rocky Horror Picture Show' runs from October 30th to November 1st – interactive, midnight madness with audience participation that's equal parts cult classic and participatory fun.
Magic and jazz round things out: The Masters of Illusion magic show dazzles on November 7th with illusions that'll leave you questioning reality. On the same night, the Fellowship Jazz Center Orchestra explores the 'Evolution of Swing,' tracing the roots of jazz from its early days to modern twists – a great way to understand how swing music evolved from big band energy to today's improvisations.
Now, shifting gears to holiday-specific events at the Pavilion – because who says the festivities end with one movie?
Kick off the season with Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland on November 25th, a circus-inspired spectacle blending acrobatics, music, and holiday cheer.
The annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 28th is a heartwarming tradition, complete with lights, carols, and community spirit.
Dive into literature with 'Christmas with C.S. Lewis' on November 29th and 30th, exploring the author's timeless tales and wisdom for the holidays.
Ballet lovers, don't miss the Nutcracker Christmas Ballet on December 2nd, a magical retelling of the classic story with stunning dances and sets.
Fiddle fans, tune in for 'Holiday for Fiddlers' on December 4th, featuring lively folk tunes and perhaps some audience sing-alongs.
Sacred music takes center stage with Handel's Messiah on December 5th and 6th, a powerful choral work that's a holiday staple for its soaring hymns.
Jazz up your evenings with Tonic Sol-Fa and the Shaun Johnson Big Band Experience on December 6th, blending vocal harmonies with big band swing.
The Blue Violin's Candlelight Christmas Tour on December 9th offers intimate, violin-led renditions of holiday favorites in a cozy setting.
Lorie Line performs on December 12th, bringing her folk and country flair to seasonal songs.
The South Dakota Symphony Orchestra's Christmas concert spans December 13th and 14th, filling the air with orchestral holiday magic.
The Good Night Theatre Collective returns with 'White Christmas' from December 18th to 21st, a feel-good musical tribute to the classic film.
'Holiday Jam with the Hegg Brothers' on December 19th promises bluegrass and gospel jams that'll get everyone tapping their toes.
Finally, 'Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas, the Musical' runs from December 23rd to 27th, a whimsical stage adaptation perfect for families, teaching lessons about the true meaning of Christmas through Seuss's imaginative storytelling.
All tickets for these events can be purchased conveniently on the Pavilion's website at https://www.washingtonpavilion.org/events/.
But here's where it gets controversial – is 'National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation' really the ultimate holiday film, or does it overshadow more heartfelt classics like 'It's a Wonderful Life'? Some argue its slapstick humor captures the chaotic joy of family gatherings, while others say it promotes unrealistic expectations of perfection gone wrong. What do you think – does this movie define your Christmas, or is there a better contender? Share your thoughts in the comments below; I'd love to hear if you agree, disagree, or have your own holiday movie debate!
