I have a favorite story of navigating the bustling streets of the city, as my family embarked on our annual adventure to find the perfect Christmas tree amidst the urban landscape.
Armed with excitement and bundled in warm layers, we ventured through the snowy streets, our boots crunching on the frozen ground. The scent of pine enveloped us, guiding our way through the maze of shoppers hurrying to buy their Christmas gifts. In the crisp, wintry weather, a sense of holiday magic filled the air.
The city, adorned with sparkling lights and ornamented storefronts, echoed the festive spirit in every corner. Wandering through the cheerful chaos, we discovered a Christmas tree lot tucked between towering buildings. Rows of evergreens stood proudly, their vibrant greenery contrasting with the concrete surroundings. The fragrant pines intermingled with the aroma of hot cocoa and chestnuts from nearby vendors, creating a sensory symphony.
After careful consideration, we selected a beautifully shaped tree, its branches shimmering with snow and twinkling lights. With the city’s energy embracing us, we carried our Christmas tree home, excited to infuse our home with the warmth and joy of this festive tradition. Bringing with it all the holiday magic of a Hallmark movie — at once both saccharine and heart-warming.
Though evergreens have been used to add a festive atmosphere to the celebration of the solstice, the Christmas Tree found its origins in Germany of the Middle Ages. Martin Luther is often mythologized as the progenitor of the tradition though it is more likely an outgrowth of the earlier use of greenery. What is considered fact is that the Christmas Tree did have its origins in Germany not long after the death of Luther.
In the late 19th century, a lake boat captain saw an opportunity to bring that tradition to the many poor and disadvantaged people of Chicago and began his annual journey bringing trees from the Upper Peninsula south to the city. It wasn’t long before he became known as “Captain Santa.”
The Old Town Playhouse just opened “The Christmas Schooner,” a musical that celebrates the annual trips, the people who made them and those who awaited them. It is a reverent and inspiring tale told through storytellers and the main characters of the Stossel family. It is a conflation of the many trips taken and tells of the sinking of the schooner Rouse Simmons. A lovely, occasionally mournful yet fulfilling story just perfect for the family at this festive time of year.
As if that isn’t enough to warm the bottom of your soul, the weekend of Dec. 15, 16 and 17 Old Town Playhouse presents its annual Young Company “Holiday Cabaret,” a celebration in song and dance of all things Christmas, with traditional and new music for the holidays. We’ve been happily listening to these mostly familiar songs for a while now, and it makes for a pleasant workplace.
At the same time, we are gearing up for the New Year and second half of the OTP season. Earlier this week we auditioned for “Circle, Mirror, Transformation” and “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.” Excitement reigns at the Old Town Playhouse this holiday season.
Come see “The Christmas Schooner.” May you enjoy your holidays however you choose to celebrate them.