Theater Under the Stars brings a grand and nostalgic production of White Christmas to Houston—an affectionate tribute to Irving Berlin’s timeless music and the beloved classic film. While I personally haven’t seen the movie, my aunt (who has seen it more times than she can count) assured me this stage version is a faithful adaptation.

From the moment the overture swells, this production envelopes you in the jazzy, poppy charm of 1950s Broadway. The score is consistently catchy and refreshingly different from many modern musicals—a reminder of how effortlessly melodic Berlin’s work truly is.

The highlight of White Christmas is unquestionably the ensemble. When the full cast comes together, the harmonies are rich, full, and downright beautiful. Those big numbers sound big, and the vocal blend gives these classic songs a vibrant new life onstage.

The story itself is serviceable and sweet—centered on friendship, romance, and a series of holiday miscommunications. It’s simple, but it works, especially for a seasonal show meant to wrap you in warm, festive vibes.

This is a lengthy musical, running close to three hours, and you definitely feel it. Both acts open with overtures that, while gorgeous, could have been trimmed for pacing. A handful of solo dance features also add time without pushing the story forward. They’re admirable and well-executed but contribute to a runtime that may challenge tired holiday audiences. Go in rested.

The cast truly shines.

• Bob Wallace, played by Jarran Muse, brings warmth and sincerity to the role.

• Phil Davis, portrayed by Drew Redington, has energetic charm and great comedic timing.

• Betty Haynes, played by Courtney Markowitz, delivers strong vocals and a subtle, believable vulnerability.

• Judy Haynes, portrayed by Karli Dinardo, is vibrant, skilled, and a wonderful onstage partner to Redington.

Their chemistry—especially between Muse and Markowitz as Bob and Betty—feels natural and heartfelt, capturing that dynamic of two people who struggle a bit with insecurity yet connect through shared personality traits.

Phil and Judy (Redington and Dinardo) add joyful energy, dance power, and humor that elevate the show.

The production also features a standout teen performance from Allie Velasquez as Susan (or “Susie,” though she insists on the more grown-up version), who handles her scenes and solo moment with professionalism and confidence—a true highlight.

The production and costume design are a visual treat. Sets are immersive. Costumes sparkle, shimmer, and sometimes explode into feathers—in one sequence, Betty and Judy fan out enormous feather plumes that instantly reminded me of Taylor Swift’s The Life of a Showgirl aesthetic. There’s a glamor to this production you don’t always see in other holiday staples.

While A Christmas Carol is an annual tradition in Houston, White Christmas is a rarer treat—the last TUTS production was way back in 2008. That alone makes this revival feel special.

If you’re looking for a festive night out with family or friends, White Christmas delivers:
beautiful voices, a strong cast, eye-catching design, and plenty of warm holiday spirit.
It’s long, but if you’re well-rested, there is so much to admire.

A charming, family-friendly holiday recommendation.
Get your tickets before it closes on December 24 at TUTS.com!