Irving Berlin’s White Christmas: Let It Snow, Let It Snow (in DeVos Hall)

It is no secret that we at Rapid Growth avoid the sentimental trappings of nostalgia. As Fran Lebowitz often says, “The culture is steeped in nostalgia…it is the death knell of our culture.”

But at Christmas, I am more willing to let the cult of Lebowitz slide as we allow ourselves to be overtaken with the spirit of the holidays.

So what better way to kick off the season than with a big Broadway show like the wonderful Irving Berlin’s White Christmas, landing at the Grand Rapids DeVos Performance Hall for a week of holiday fun for the whole family.

The show is loosely based upon the movie of the same name, which tells the stories of two showbiz buddies who just so happen to be best friends. And as they land at a tiny Vermont Inn in the hopes of producing a festive program for the guests, they also find that this visit produces the love of their lives.   

This production features the entire classic tunes of the Irving Berlin film. including the classic “White Christmas.” Many of Berlin’s other songs, while not in the film version, work seamlessly in this stage transfer.

The highlight of this show is not just a chance to see a successful film-to-stage adaptation with colorful costumes, period-rich dancing and some of the best Broadway singing you’re going to hear this entire season. No, the best part is how the theatre will make you think it is really snowing. 

As we have always said for years now, live theater is meant to be experienced live, and Irving Berlin’s White Christmas should be at the very top of your entertainment choices this season.

Admission: From $34.50