Landmark Community Theatre’s (LCT) production of Miracle on 34th Street opened this past weekend at the Thomaston Opera House and will continue for two more weekends. Tickets are on sale on the theatre’s website, and the remaining performances are filling quickly.

The play follows Kris Kringle as he challenges the skepticism of department store staff, a family, and eventually a courtroom. This year’s production features a wide cast, including many families performing together, and brings a holiday classic to the Opera House during one of the busiest times of year for LCT.

We had an opportunity to connect with Co-Director Chris Guertin, who is making his directorial debut with this production after years of performing onstage and contributing to set design at LCT and other regional theaters. He shared a few insights about what audiences can expect and what has stood out during the show so far.

One new addition Guertin highlighted is the “Letters to Santa” display in the Opera House lobby. Families are encouraged to bring letters and drop them in the box before the show, and the collected letters later appear onstage during the well-known post office scene. Guertin says the moment adds a bit of audience participation and can be especially fun for children who see their letters carried off “to Santa” as part of the story.

Guertin noted that one of the most rewarding parts of directing this year’s production has been the number of families involved. Many young performers have a parent appearing alongside them, even in a small role, and he said the holiday shows often bring in new participants and highlight a meaningful aspect of community theatre.

We also asked Guertin whether there was anything happening behind the scenes that audiences might find interesting. He pointed to the complete set change that takes place during intermission, when the stage transforms from Macy’s to the courtroom. Several large pieces are designed to serve two purposes, and the crew works quickly during the break to reset the entire scene. He said the transformation is often a surprise for audiences and reflects the amount of work happening backstage.

Remaining performances of Miracle on 34th Street will be held December 12, 13, 19, and 20 at 7 p.m., with Sunday matinees on December 14 and 21 at 2 p.m. The show takes place at the Thomaston Opera House at 158 Main Street.

Looking ahead, the theatre has several productions planned for 2026, including Puffs in late winter, Pretty Woman in the spring, Anastasia over the summer, Ragtime in the fall, and Santa Switch next holiday season. More details on those productions will be shared as they approach.