Season's Greetings!: What Shows You Should Put on Your List this Holiday Season

It's almost that time of year again, and all that is on my mind is: How many show tickets is socially acceptable to ask my parents for Christmas? While I figure that number out, here are my top 5 shows coming to the Chicago area that would be a perfect gift to give to your friends, family, or even to yourself as we finish the year off with a bang.

1. MEAN GIRLS

James M. Nederlander Theatre

December 25th, 2019 - January 26th, 2020

Are you really fetch if you don't go to this musical? Dive into the world of Cady Heron as she goes from the African savanna to the real-world jungle of high school. I am extremely excited for this show since the movie version is my favorite chick flick to watch with my friends. Regina George is the true Apex Predator, so I can't wait to see how they portray her in the musical. This would be a perfect day trip over the holiday season with your mom, best gal pal, or even your sister(s)!

2. ONCE ON THIS ISLAND

Cadillac Palace Theatre

January 21st, 2020 - February 2nd, 2020

This Tony-nominated musical follows Ti Moune, a peasant girl on a tropical island, who uses the power of love to bring together people of different social classes. I have never seen this musical before, but I have heard only positive reviews about the elegance and beauty of the songs, costumes, and characters. I would highly recommend this show to anyone who enjoys thought-provoking ideas and powerful characters of color. This musical is number one on my holiday wishlist!

3. THE BOOK OF MORMON

Broadway Playhouse

February 25th, 2020 - March 1st, 2020

This. Musical. There are no words to describe how hilarious this show is. If you are a big fan of South Park, you will enjoy this way more than the average person. It follows an unexpected pair of Mormons in their service for the Church of Latter-Day Saints and all the bizarre characters they meet along the way. I watched this last year with my father and grandmother, so be warned that this show is not for little kids. 11/10, would totally recommend.

4. THE OFFICE! A MUSICAL PARODY

Broadway Playhouse

April 28th, 2020 - May 17th, 2020

I am a huge Office fan, so I had to include this new musical on this list! Follow all of your favorite Office characters like Dwight, Jim, and Michael on another typical (or not-so-typical) day at the Scranton paper company Dunder Mifflin. I cannot wait to see how the characters interact with each other throughout the musical, and I hope they remake "Scranton: The Electric City" and "Threat Level Midnight". I will totally drag my bestfriend to this show, as he appreciates the Office just as much as I do.

5. DEAR EVAN HANSEN

CIBC Theatre

July 7th, 2020 - September 27, 2020

Ahh, this musical is definitely the biggest tear-jerker I've ever seen. The story follows Evan, a socially awkward and anxious high school senior, who finally gets the chance for what he wants most: a chance to finally fit in. This show won six Tony awards (yes, six!) including Best Musical in 2017. I thought this show would be too much of a sob story, but it was the perfect mix of happiness and sadness throughout the musical. Watch this with any member of your family and watch their eyes water before intermission.

If you want to buy tickets for these shows, use this link and purchase them for your next holiday gift or click on the photos to go to their official website! Musicals are made for everyone, and finding the perfect show for your loved ones will be an incredible experience as you spend a day in the Windy City. Happy holidays!