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When I showed up for the Girls Night Out event at the Geffen Playhouse recently, I had no idea what to expect. All I knew was that there would be a show, jewelry, cocktails, and a cheesecake bar. I love all of those things. As I walked through the lit courtyard of the lovely and intimate Geffen Playhouse in Westwood Village, I thought, “How have I never been here?”

 

The show, Coney Island Christmas, tells the story of Shirley Abramowitz and her family. Shirley recounts the story of her very best Christmas to her great granddaughter, and the two travel back in time to when Shirley was a young Jewish girl cast as Jesus Christ in her school’s Christmas pageant. Let’s just say her immigrant parents were far from pleased...

 

Pulitzer Prize-winner Donald Margulies created a show filled with nostalgia, music, and merriment. It’s a universal story to remind us all that the holiday spirit is truly about coming together and embracing each other’s differences. The cast featured no household names but many recognizable faces. While each cast member did an outstanding job, the most notable performances were that of Angela Paton (Groundhog Day, American Pie), who played Shirley, and Isabella Acres ("Desperate Housewives", Better Off Ted), who played young Shirley. 

 

As a Jewish girl who loves all things Christmas, I could certainly relate to Shirley’s predicament, but no matter what your age or faith, you will laugh, cry, and have a merry good time. Immediately following the show, I headed to the after-party to shop statement necklaces and bracelets from the Cayetano Legacy Collection. These unique pieces showcase beautifully sourced materials from the Philippine Islands and have been seen on Wendy Williams and Natalie Getz from "The Bachelor".

 

Although, sadly, this Girl’s Night Out event is over, be sure to check the Geffen Playhouse Website for more upcoming show and events. You can still stock up on holiday gems for your family and friends (or perhaps yourself), and Coney Island Christmas will be playing at the Geffen Playhouse through December 30. Don’t miss out on what is sure to be a holiday classic!

 

 

 

Samantha Waranch is a blogger, screenwriter, and author and has written articles for Girl’s Life Magazine. She loves all things Hollywood! Follow her on Twitter @SammiRobin.