Advertisement
Judy's Scary Little ChristmasBook by David Church and Jim Webber
Music and Lyrics by Patrick Joe Ward
Judy Garland is primed for her biggest comeback ever – the dazzling star of her own TV special, broadcast live on Christmas Eve, 1959. Judy’s guests include Bing Crosby, Ethel Merman and Liberace. However, mysterious snafus behind the scenes and cameo appearances by commie-baiting Vice President Richard Nixon and blacklisted writer Lillian Hellman, throw Judy’s program off course. The surprises climax when the arrival of Joan Crawford is interrupted by the spectral figure of… Death. The evening takes a detour into the Twilight Zone as the celebrities are forced to confront the lies behind their legends. Devastated and alone, Judy meets a special fan who ultimately proves that, despite her flaws, her shining legacy still endures.
Directed by Will Asmus
Music direction by Wes Habley
Presented at The James Theater
December 4-13, 2026
Advertisement
Event venue
The James Theater, 213 N Gilbert St, Iowa City, IA 52245-2125, United States
Tickets
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.
Discover more events by tag
Theatre in Iowa CityPerforming-arts in Iowa CityChristmas in Iowa CityArt in Iowa CityWorkshops in Iowa CityMusic in Iowa CityLiterary-art in Iowa CityEntertainment in Iowa CityWriting in Iowa City