On a snowy Christmas Eve in 1983, the operator of the Music Box Theatre—a historic movie palace—decided to show two old holiday movies and sing a few Christmas carols during the intermission. Now, 34 years later, the annual Christmas Double Feature & Sing Along grows more popular with each passing year. People from all around Chicagoland have made this terrific, old-fashioned event part of their family’s holiday tradition.
Each year, holiday revelers are greeted by none other than Santa Claus, live and in person. Santa welcomes the audience and, accompanied by Music Box organist Dennis Scott, leads them in the singing of the most cherished Christmas carols of all time. The lyrics are projected onto the theater’s screen so no one misses a chance to sing their hearts out. Then the audience sits back and enjoys a Christmas movie classic.
Some folks like to keep the music going and opt to see White Christmas so they can sing the timeless lyrics of Irving Berlin along with Bing Crosby, Danny Kay, and Rosemary Clooney. Others prefer to cheer for Jimmy Stewart as George Bailey and hiss Mr. Potter during a showing of the heart-warming It’s A Wonderful Life. And those truly filled with holiday spirit see both films!
This special double feature runs through Dec. 24th and tickets may be purchased in advance online or at the box office.