Fancy Nancy Splendiferous Christmas (2022)

Book by Cara Lustik & Matthew Hardy
Lyrics by Matthew Hardy
Music by Randy Klein
Based on the popular "Fancy Nancy" books by Jane O'Connor and illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser
Directed by Laura M. Hathaway
Music Direction by Stefan Miller

Awards and Recognition

  • TYA Family Series
  • So Cal Premiere
  • Based on Best-Selling Books

Reviewer Quotes

“ the songs are catchy and charming ”

Mommy Poppins

“ a refreshing sound... elements of swing as well as contemporary pop ”

New York Times

Masks are strongly recommended while inside our building, but we are no longer requiring mask-wearing or proof of vaccination to attend a general performance.

For those who are more cautious, we will continue offering a select number of Vaccinated+ Performances, where audience members must provide proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 along with a photo ID. Masks are still strongly recommended for these performances, but not required.

» Click here to read our updated health and safety protocols.


What could be fancier than Christmas?

Presents with elegant wrapping paper, festive decorations, Christmas cookies with sprinkles – and who could forget the tree? After all, there is no such thing as too much tinsel. Ooh, la la! This year, Nancy is especially excited. After selling some of her old gowns and accessories, she has enough money to buy a brand-new sparkly tree topper. She simply cannot wait to decorate the Christmas tree. But when things don’t turn out the way Nancy planned, does Christmas still stand a chance of being splendiferous?

Recommendation: Ages 4 and up. Great for the entire family.

“The hourlong musical…has a dramatic tension….as well as a refreshing sound:…elements of swing well as contemporary pop… Everyone learns the true meaning of the holiday…but what makes “Splendiferous Christmas: winning is that it dares to be a little naughty as well as nice.”
New York Times

Fancy Nancy Splendiferous Christmas is a wonderful holiday indulgence…an energetic and colorful production… in addition to being entertained, young audiences will be inspired to think about generosity, kindness and the true spirit of the holidays. And … the songs are catchy and charming.”
Mommy Poppins

“When you watch the play, Fancy Nancy: Splendiferous Christmas you will realize that Fancy Nancy is not too fancy and is someone with many good qualities that you want your children to learn from.”
The Culture Mom


Executive Producer
Robert Berman

Season Producers
Bette & Wylie Aitken

Associate Season Producer The Family of Mary Kay Fyda-Mar

Text Copyright ©2009 by Jane O’Connor. Illustrations Copyright ©2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 by Robin Preiss Glasser. Used with the permission of HarperCollins Children’s Books
Check back the week of December 12th to see photos from our production
The Chance is thrilled to be providing at least one "Relaxed Performance" per show in our TYA Family Series.   Relaxed performances are specifically designed to welcome patrons who will benefit from a less restricted audience environment. Patrons of all abilities are welcome, including but not limited to those with intellectual or learning disabilities, sensory processing conditions or autism. There is a relaxed attitude to noise and movement within the auditorium, and some minor production changes may be made to reduce the intensity of light, sound and other potentially startling effects.  

Articles & Reviews

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Audience Buzz

    1. It was fabulous. Nancy and her family can teach us all about the true meaning of Christmas. I laughed, I sang and even a tear of happiness came to my eyes! Magnificent. Thank you for a wonderful performance.

      — Sharon Page

Venue Bette Aitken theater arts Center

Bette Aitken theater arts Center
5522 E. La Palma Ave.
Anaheim, CA  92807
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  • Free Parking
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