Andrew Keltz/Photo: Liz Lauren

RECOMMENDED

This year’s edition of the alternative Christmas classic is no disappointment; if you’re planning on going Scrooge-less this year, this is the show for you.

The Hans Christian Andersen tale follows young Gerda (Leslie Ann Sheppard) as she travels to save her friend Kai (Andrew Keltz) from the Snow Queen. Sheppard, the ensemble’s newest addition, brings high-energy likeability to the role; both she and Keltz have the strong singing and dancing chops necessary to pull off the leads.

Michael Smith’s witty lyrics can occasionally be over-long and repetitive, but the multi-talented ensemble clearly enjoys the material and each other. Show veteran Cheryl Lynn Bruce’s turn is warm and wry; Sue Demel’s song stylings are both poignant and hilarious; Barbara Barrow’s voice is a force of nature. Jeff Bauer’s set and puppets by Blair Thomas and Meredith Miller lend the show the fantastic fairy tale touch it requires. (Lisa Buscani)

“The Snow Queen” plays at Victory Gardens Theater, 2433 N. Lincoln, (773)871-3000. Through December  27.