American Music Theatre's First Noel Full of Nostalgia

May 2024 ยท 3 minute read
The First Noel is the 2013 Christmas show at American Music Theatre in Lancaster this year, and it is the perfect choice for your family to enjoy this season. The talented cast performs classic Christmas songs, including some original arrangements that will leave you feeling nothing but holiday warmth.

The opening half of The First Noel features a family holiday gathering at a winter cabin. Scenes include decorating for Christmas, stories around the fire and a fun-tastic snowball fight. Featured songs are "Jingle Bells," "Walking in a Winter Wonderland" and a country-fied version of "Frosty the Snowman."

After intermission, it was time for Santa and his spunky, fun-loving elves. With my Mini Macs being 5 and 3, this was definitely their favorite part. The set looked like you were right in the middle of Santa's workshop at the North Pole and they loved seeing the different toys come to life, including toy soldiers and train engineers on the Polar Express.

The second act also featured the retelling of the Christmas story with beautiful renditions of traditional carols including "The Little Drummer Boy" and "The First Noel." The cast was accompanied by a live orchestra on stage throughout the show, which only added to the experience.

This was my first visit to American Music Theatre, but I can guarantee our family will be back. The theatre was the perfect size and it appeared that terrific views could be had no matter where your seat. A spacious lobby included concession stands and restrooms on both sides so that intermission offered plenty of time to make a stop or grab a snack for the second half. Did I mention the concession stands had my favorite -- Wilbur buds?!?

One other item of note that both my Mini Macs and I appreciated was a small holiday activity booklet and crayons that were handed out at the start of the show. It was perfect for keeping them occupied until the show started or for a few extra minutes of intermission.

The First Noel is playing through Dec. 30 with multiple shows each week. View dates and times and order tickets online at www.AMTshows.com. Tickets are $39 for adults and $19.50 for children, and the show runs just over two hours.

But, American Music Theatre is more than the holiday show. They have a full schedule ahead for 2014, including what will be another family favorite - Jack Hanna's Into the Wild in March. Concerts like Josh Turner and Vince Gill, Bring It On: The Musical and Stomp also are coming soon.

Whether you are looking to see The First Noel or a future show, take advantage of their special offer on Thursday, Dec. 5 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. when the service charge for phone and online purchases will be waived.

Disclosure: My family received tickets to facilitate this review. As always, all opinions expressed are my own.

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