Pahrump Theatre Company is delivering a festive double feature this holiday season at the Calvada Theater, located at 1266 E. Calvada Blvd. #1, offering audiences two very different theatrical experiences under one roof. From a heartwarming youth production perfect for families to a wildly imaginative comedy geared toward adults, the current lineup showcases both the range and creativity of the local theater community.
For family audiences, “A Tiny Christmas Carol” offers a fresh and touching twist on the beloved holiday classic. Directed by Rhea Chavez, the production features a cast of 12 young actors between the ages of 8 and 15 who bring warmth, humor, and sincerity to the stage. The cast includes Landen as Scrooge, AJ as the nurse, Izzy as Tiny Tam, Carter as Cody, along with Valeriia, Mario, Gabriel, Apollo, Gabe, Neveah, and Freya rounding out the ensemble.
Despite the short preparation window, the young cast rose impressively to the challenge. Chavez shared that the group rehearsed for just four weeks—significantly shorter than the typical six-week rehearsal schedule—meeting four days a week for two hours each night and even rehearsing through Thanksgiving break. With a script full of dialogue and emotional moments, rehearsals were busy and energetic, but once the performers stepped in front of an audience, everything clicked. According to Chavez, the transformation was immediate, with the children fully settling into performance mode and delivering strong, confident performances from the very first shows.
The result is a charming production that balances youthful enthusiasm with genuine heart. Beyond telling a holiday story, the experience also provides valuable life skills for the young performers. Chavez described youth theater as much like being part of an artistic sports team, where children learn teamwork, communication, improvisation, and public speaking while forming close bonds with castmates of all ages. Many of the young actors return for multiple productions and also participate in Pahrump Theatre Company’s youth drama camps, making the theater a second home for many families.
Running concurrently is “Young Grinchenstein,” a comedy aimed squarely at adult audiences that leans into clever absurdity and unapologetic holiday chaos. Directed by Oliver Jones, the cast includes Steve Witten, Alex Lannin, Oliver Jones, Amanda Spera, and Eric Dent, each fully embracing the play’s over-the-top humor and offbeat storytelling.
The story centers on Fred, a man who has spent his life trying to outrun an unfortunate family legacy: his grandfather didn’t just steal the spirit of Christmas—he stole the whole thing. In an attempt to escape that legacy, Fred reinvents himself as Dr. Gronchensteen, hoping no one will notice the resemblance. They do. What follows is a holiday mashup that blends parody, physical comedy, and delightful nonsense, creating a theatrical experience that feels equal parts Mel Brooks and Dr. Seuss, with a style all its own.
True to its nature, the production resists explanation, inviting audiences to embrace the confusion and enjoy the ride. Strange inventions, unexpected visuals, and rapid-fire humor keep the show moving at a brisk pace, rewarding those willing to let go and laugh along.
Together, these two productions highlight the breadth of Pahrump Theatre Company’s offerings—from nurturing young talent and creating meaningful family entertainment to delivering sharp, inventive comedy for adult theatergoers.
Remaining Showtimes
A Tiny Christmas Carol (Family-Friendly)
- December 18 at 6 p.m.
- December 19 at 6 p.m.
- December 20 at 6 p.m.
- December 21 at 2 p.m.
Young Grinchenstein (Adult Comedy)
- December 18 at 8 p.m.
- December 19 at 8 p.m.
- December 20 at 8 p.m.
- December 21 at 4 p.m.
Tickets are available for all remaining performances. Whether attending with children for a heartfelt holiday outing or planning an adults-only night of laughter, audiences won’t want to miss either production lighting up the Calvada Theater this season.
