“A Christmas Story” comes to life now through Wednesday

For me, it’s not Christmas day unless the house is bustling with people and the TV channel is set to the “A Christmas Story” marathon – for added background noise. So, if your holiday seems very similar to mine, you will want to take time out (just as I will) for “A Christmas Story,” presented live by The Gateway at Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts, Dec. 20-27.

There’s nothing quite like getting to see a live version of this tale about young Ralphie who only wants one thing for Christmas: “An Official Red Ryder® Carbine-Action 200-shot Range Model Air Rifle.” Playing out before you are the iconic scenes, like Ralphie in the pink bunny suit his Aunt Clara sent; his parents’ – the Parkers – feud over the Leg Lamp; Ralphie’s friend, Flick, getting his tongue stuck to the flagpole; and Santa bellowing, “You’ll shoot your eye out, kid!”

All of the film’s classic scenes will be presented with live music, from ballads to full-ensemble numbers. Tunes like “Ralphie to the Rescue,” “Sticky Situation” and “Somewhere Hovering Over Indiana” are sure to have you singing along. Of course, there’s also a song “You’ll Shoot Your Eye Out!”

If you can’t get that line out of your head, then this tale will have done what it has set out to do – entertain in the merriest and brightest way!

“A Christmas Story” The Musical
Presented by The Gateway
Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts
71 E. Main St., Patchogue
No shows Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
631-286-1133 · thegateway.org