By Ahmad Yassir, Vermont Country Magazine.
The holidays are a time for beloved traditions, familiar carols and a little unexpected magic. This December, Bennington Theater is adding a generous helping of comedy, music and convent-sized chaos to end the 2026 season with Nuncrackers: The Nunsense Christmas Musical, produced and directed by John Lugar.
Written and composed by Dan Goggin, Nuncrackers is part of the musical comedy series that began with the original Nunsense. This time, the Little Sisters of Hoboken have set their sights on television stardom, building a public access TV studio in the basement of their convent to record a Christmas special. Naturally, the production doesn’t go entirely according to plan.
“Think Sound of Music meets The Play That Goes Wrong,” Lugar said, describing the show’s mix of naughty and nice. It’s a fitting recipe for a holiday performance, where even the best-laid plans can unravel in the most entertaining ways.
The sisters are joined by Father Virgil and some of the most talented students from their school, bringing a lively cast of characters to the convent’s television debut. Audiences can expect new songs, familiar holiday carols, a Secret Santa and an uproarious take on Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker ballet.
Among the original musical numbers are “Twelve Days Prior to Christmas,” “Santa Ain’t Comin’ To Our House,” “We Three Kings of Orient Are Us” and “It’s Better to Give Than To Receive.” With musical comedy, seasonal singalongs and plenty of opportunities for things to go delightfully sideways, the show offers a playful alternative to the season’s more traditional entertainment.
For Lugar, bringing Nuncrackers to the Bennington Theater audience is an opportunity to share the kind of performance that makes live theater such a special part of the holidays.
“Nuncrackers is the perfect holiday confection,” he said. “Great musical numbers, sing alongs, and stockings full of laughs will guarantee a fun time for all.”
The production also celebrates the talent found close to home. The show brings together local musical performers and a community theater company committed to excellence. Four young local actors will make their Bennington Theater debuts, playing students at the school run by the sisters.
That community spirit is part of what makes a night at the theater more than just an evening’s entertainment. It’s a chance to see local performers take the stage, share their craft and bring a story to life for neighbors, friends and visitors alike.
With so many performing arts events competing for attention during the holidays, Lugar has a clear recommendation for theatergoers.
“Santa says put Nuncrackers: The Nunsense Christmas Musical at the top of your list,” he said. “A real plum pudding of an evening in the theater.”
Whether you’re planning a festive night out with friends, looking for a seasonal date-night idea or simply in the mood for a few good laughs, Nuncrackers promises a merry mix of music, mischief and holiday heart.
Plan Your Visit
Nuncrackers: The Nunsense Christmas Musical
Where: Bennington Theater, 331 Main St., Bennington
Directed by and produced by: John Lugar
Tickets: BenningtonTheater.org
Performances:
- Friday, Dec. 4, at 7 p.m.
- Saturday, Dec. 5, at 7 p.m.
- Sunday, Dec. 6, at 2 p.m.
- Friday, Dec. 11, at 7 p.m.
- Saturday, Dec. 12, at 7 p.m.
- Sunday, Dec. 13, at 2 p.m.
For the holiday season, consider trading a quiet evening at home for a seat in the audience. At Bennington Theater, the sisters are ready for their close-up, and the show must go on.
