Hold onto your holiday hats – Chevy Chase, the king of comedic chaos, is storming into Sioux Falls for a festive extravaganza that'll have you laughing all the way to Christmas!
Imagine the ultimate holiday cheer: Chevy Chase, the unforgettable patriarch from those hilarious Griswold family adventures, is set to grace the Washington Pavilion on November 29th. He'll be starring in a special screening of his iconic 1983 film, 'National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.' For those new to the scene, this movie is a riotous romp through the misadventures of Clark Griswold, played by Chase himself, as he tries to create the perfect family Christmas – only for everything to go hilariously wrong with tangled lights, exploding turkeys, and plenty of family squabbles. It's become a holiday staple, blending slapstick humor with heartwarming moments that resonate with anyone who's ever dealt with festive fiascos.
But here's where it gets exciting – stick around after the film for a live Q&A session packed with juicy behind-the-scenes anecdotes from the set. Chase's wife, Jayni, will be there too, adding an extra layer of personal charm. Tickets kick off at just $57, and you can snag them right on the Washington Pavilion's website at https://www.washingtonpavilion.org/events/. And for the ultimate fans, there are limited VIP options that include a one-on-one photo op with Chase post-show – talk about a memory to cherish!
Now, if you're wondering what else is lighting up the Pavilion before the year wraps up, we've got a lineup that's sure to dazzle. From orchestral thrills to musical magic, here's a sneak peek at the upcoming shows:
- Dive into suspense with 'Psycho: Film and Orchestra' on October 25th, where the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra brings Hitchcock's classic thriller to life with live music.
- Enjoy the soothing sounds of the Fall Chamber Music Concert on November 9th, perfect for a relaxed evening of classical tunes.
- Groove to 'An American in Paris' on November 22nd, another symphony delight that captures the essence of Gershwin's beloved work.
- Musicals take center stage with 'Back to the Future' running from October 14th to 19th – a time-traveling adventure on stage that's fun for all ages.
- Catch 'Beatles vs. Stones' on November 14th, pitting two rock legends against each other in a musical showdown.
- The World Ballet Co. brings elegance with 'The Great Gatsby Ballet' on October 26th, reimagining the Jazz Age novel in dance.
- Concerts abound: The Waddington Brothers on October 28th for some soulful harmonies, Rodney Carrington on November 16th with his stand-up comedy flair, and the Little River Band on November 21st, delivering classic rock hits.
- The Good Night Theatre Collective revives 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show' from October 30th to November 1st – a cult favorite interactive experience that's equal parts spooky and silly.
- Be amazed by the Masters of Illusion magic show on November 7th, where sleight of hand meets spectacle.
- Swing into the night with the Fellowship Jazz Center Orchestra's 'Evolution of Swing' on November 7th, tracing the roots of this lively genre.
And this is the part most people miss – the Pavilion isn't just about shows; it's gearing up for a whirlwind of holiday festivities too. Mark your calendars for these seasonal specials:
- Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland on November 25th, a dazzling blend of circus arts and music to kick off the season.
- The annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 28th, a community tradition filled with lights, carols, and cheer.
- Immerse yourself in 'Christmas with C.S. Lewis' from November 29th to 30th, exploring the author's timeless holiday tales.
- Twirl through the Nutcracker Christmas Ballet on December 2nd, a ballet classic that's magical for families.
- Fiddle away at 'Holiday for Fiddlers' on December 4th, celebrating folk music and dance.
- Experience the grandeur of Handel's Messiah on December 5th and 6th, a choral masterpiece that's a holiday must-hear.
- Groove to Tonic Sol-Fa with the Shaun Johnson Big Band Experience on December 6th, bringing big band energy to the stage.
- The Blue Violin's Candlelight Christmas Tour on December 9th offers intimate, violin-led holiday melodies.
- Catch Lorie Line on December 12th for some country-inspired Christmas tunes.
- The South Dakota Symphony Orchestra's Christmas concert runs from December 13th to 14th, a symphonic celebration of the season.
- The Good Night Theatre Collective presents 'White Christmas' from December 18th to 21st, a stage adaptation of the beloved film.
- Jam out at the Holiday Jam with the Hegg Brothers on December 19th, featuring lively folk and bluegrass.
- Finally, 'Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas, the Musical' from December 23rd to 27th, a whimsical tale of holiday redemption.
All these tickets are up for grabs on the Pavilion's website at https://www.washingtonpavilion.org/events/ – so don't wait!
But here's where it gets controversial: In a world where streaming services let us watch classics like 'Christmas Vacation' from the comfort of our couches for free, is shelling out for a live screening and Q&A worth it? Some might argue it's a nostalgic throwback that builds community, while others see it as just another way to commercialize the holidays. What do you think – are these events a fun tradition or an overpriced gimmick? Do you prefer the intimacy of home viewings, or does the live experience add that extra magic? Share your thoughts in the comments below – I'd love to hear if you're team Griswold or if you'd rather skip the chaos!
