Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical
The Rankin/Bass TV classic soars off the screen and onto the stage this holiday season at the Theater at Madison Square Garden. A festive musical for all ages.
Come see all of the beloved characters from the TV special, including Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius, and, of course, Rudolph, as they come to life onstage in this seasonal musical. Filled with Johnny Marks' famous Christmas tunes ("A Holly Jolly Christmas," "The Island of Misfit Toys," and the title song), this adventure reminds us that our differences are what make us special. Arrive early to enjoy various "Reindeer Games," including a Tip the Reindeer bean bag toss and Pin the Nose on the Reindeer.
- Official Site
- View Trailer
- 2 hours
- Already closed
- The Theater at Madison Square Garden (Midtown W)
Cast & Creatives (32)
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Reviews (28)
7 Critics' Reviews
"Frozen in time...The production, directed and choreographed by Dana Solimando, has a game cast...Hardrive Productions has created marvelous reindeer costumes and an adorable puppet menagerie...The story’s themes—that bullying is cruel, and that those who are born different can make vital contributions—certainly remain timeless lessons for children. But you can’t help being disappointed that this show championing equality still denies it to half the population." Full Review
"All of the songs from the TV special are here, smartly arranged...Director-choreographer Solimando gives the elves jerky jitterbug choreography that somewhat simulates the effect of stop-motion animation and the talented ensemble proves more than up to the task of performing it...Solimando delivers a fine imitation of the film, but she doesn't add much to make this event specifically theatrical. Her by-the-book staging gets the job done, but only that." Full Review
"A delightful production that is guaranteed to please children and adults alike…This timeless treasure features a talented cast, fantastic staging, creative puppetry, elaborate costuming and dazzling special effects…This story celebrates values that we must embrace, the beauty of diversity and the importance of acceptance…Hurray for the marvelous cast that bring all your favorite characters from the North Pole to life…It's a real treat for you, your family, and friends." Full Review
"From a design standpoint, the show is impressive. It's amazing to see how the behind-the-scenes artists successfully transform actors into animated characters...The performers are, overall, strong singers and dancers...Unfortunately, the accompaniment is prerecorded and even the exuberant cast isn't able to completely fill the cavernous space...While it's not a Broadway production, 'Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer' is an enjoyable and decidedly less expensive seasonal outing for families." Full Review
for a previous production "An almost too faithful recreation of the stop-motion original. There's charm to spare, sure, in the mix of adult and young actors, and production designer Brandon Kirkham's replication of the TV special's well-known aesthetic is often quite clever. Yet while the actors sing live, the apparently canned music can make the show's pacing feel a bit artificial...This 'Rudolph' is undoubtedly a slick production...But adults may wish for some further variance from the annual free broadcast." Full Review
for a previous production "Every time I looked at my kids, they were smiling really big! It was so much fun to be able to bring my kids to see this musical in person. The cast did an awesome job with the props and engaging the audience. I would for sure bring my whole family back to see 'Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer'...One and a half hours was perfect for keeping my kids entertained...If you want to create a Christmas memory with your children, you need to check out this musical." Full Review
for a previous production "The all-around performance was very fun. The use of video and light projection allowed for snowy time-lapse effects that seamed scenes together very well...Some scenes may have benefited from more structured staging and choreography...'Rudolph' was a great way to kick off the holiday season with my family and I was pleased to see how the rest of the crowd – young and old – left smiling with us." Full Review
21 Members' Reviews
See it if You want to take young children to a show; the kids really enjoyed the show
Don't see it if You don't have kids who you want to take to a show
See it if you are fan of the cartoon as a kid or you are kid..
Don't see it if you didn't like the cartoon, and you are Scrooge.
See it if you have free time and get cheap tickets. Great villain, but switches sides PDQ. This ain't Mamet or LaBute. Pro Tip: Sit close for dry ice!
Don't see it if Hate scores of toddlers standing on chairs. Unmasked reindeer ruin fantasy. Lead is pure brown noser at the end of the day, let's face it.
See it if I still look very much forward to the stop-animation Christmas specials every year so I am totally biased, but if you are a fan--you will ❤️
Don't see it if If you are expecting production value anywhere close to that of Radio City (also owned by MSG)-- you will be disappointed.
Also It's obviously more geared towards children, but I went with a group o... Read more Read less
See it if you are 4 years old and need a traditional holiday tale.
Don't see it if you are 40 and used to much more clever children's theatre.
See it if you want wholesome family entertainment, are a kid at heart, love the magic of the holiday season, love the underdog saving the day.
Don't see it if you need a production that has more "meat," you do not like family-oriented or holiday-themed shows.
See it if Your a child at heart and get a decent discount. Good family 90 minute cute show.
Don't see it if Not for average theatregoer. Family show for children 3 and up. A simple tale that isn't as slick as Radio City by any means.
See it if you are in a Christmas mood and want to see a different family show that you already know you will love if you've seen the TV version.
Don't see it if you hate Christmas. Or want to see HAMILTON.
Also Look, you should know what to expect by seeing the logo. It's just suc... Read more Read less
See it if You love good ol' family entertainment, with no hidden subtext... Visuals are nice... I was happy to take my special needs brother along....
Don't see it if You hate children theatre (it's really for only the really young or really old) and hate musicals...
See it if you want to start your Holiday season. It's a good start.
Don't see it if you expect something new.
See it if You like the classic TV show. Child-focused.
Don't see it if You don't like the classic TV show or if you are not a child/family.
See it if you have small children
Don't see it if you have anything else to do
See it if You have kids or really love the classic cartoon movie. It may get you in the holiday spirit...
Don't see it if You're not a fan of the original cartoon....it sticks to the script pretty closely
See it if Seeking some form of holiday entertainment. Young children may like rather than adults.
Don't see it if Seeking high quality level like Radio City holiday show. Already seen the better television animated version.
See it if you like a good show
Don't see it if nothing
See it if You want to see a delightful Christmas show that is good even for teenagers (and adults) Staging is interesting. The children were great!
Don't see it if You don't like shows primarily for children or you don't like Christmas themed shows.
See it if You love christmas
Don't see it if You arena christmas hater
See it if You love Rudolph.
Don't see it if You do not like Christmas movies or musicals.
See it if You watched the animated TV special and enjoyed it as a child.
Don't see it if You are not a kid at heart
See it if You love Rudolph
Don't see it if You are a bah humbug.
See it if You enjoy child oriented shows with cuter sing along type songs.
Don't see it if You don't like Rudolph.