‘Coney Island Christmas’ brings heart, humor to Milford stage

Coney Island Christmas at the Riverfront Theater on consecutive weekends Nov. 28 through Dec. 7.

Critics Describe Coney Island Christmas as “a jewel… simply hilarious,” and “incredibly enchanting”.

MILFORD, Delaware — Second Street Players will unwrap a different kind of holiday story this season when it presents Coney Island Christmas at the Riverfront Theater on consecutive weekends Nov. 28 through Dec. 7.

The production, written by Pulitzer Prize winner Donald Margulies and based on Grace Paley’s short story The Loudest Voice, is billed as a holiday show for all ages and faiths. Performances are scheduled Fridays, Nov. 28 and Dec. 5, at 7 p.m.; Saturdays, Nov. 29 and Dec. 6, at 7 p.m.; and Sundays, Nov. 30 and Dec. 7, at 2 p.m. at the Riverfront Theater, 2 South Walnut Street in downtown Milford.

Directed by Rachel Loper and John H. Hulse, Coney Island Christmas blends nostalgia, humor and music in a story that looks at American holiday traditions through the eyes of a young Jewish girl in 1930s Brooklyn.

At the center of the play is Shirley Abramowitz, a child of immigrant parents who finds herself cast as Jesus in her public school’s Christmas pageant — a decision that delights her teacher but unsettles her family. The story is framed by an older Shirley recounting the events to her great-granddaughter, turning the show into a multi-generational reflection on identity, community and what it means to belong.

The production features Michele Blair as Great Grandmother Shirley Abramowitz and Alyssa McKain as Young Shirley. Steven Haber portrays Mr. Misha Abramowitz, and EJ Panico appears as Mrs. Clara Abramowitz. They are joined by a large ensemble of Milford-area youth and adults who fill the stage as classmates, neighbors and pageant characters ranging from Pilgrims to Santa Claus and Scrooge.

Critics have described Coney Island Christmas as “a jewel… simply hilarious,” according to Variety, and “incredible enchantment,” the Los Angeles Times wrote, noting its mix of comedy and heartfelt moments.

Second Street Players officials say the show should appeal to audiences looking for something a little different from the standard holiday lineup. While the story is set against a Christmas pageant, it also wrestles with questions of culture, faith and assimilation that resonate beyond the season.

Tickets are $27 for reserved seating. Seniors, students and Second Street Players members receive a $2 discount, with an additional $1 discount for seniors and students at Sunday matinees.

For tickets and more information, call the box office at (302) 422-0220 or email info@secondstreetplayers.com.