Photo Flash: First Look at Hell in a Handbag Productions' RUDOLPH THE RED-HOSED REINDEER

Break out your high heels and fishnets this holiday because Hell in a Handbag Productions is bringing back Rudolph the Red-Hosed Reindeer, David Cerda's beloved parody of the classic children's television special Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Now celebrating its 17th year, Rudolph the Red-Hosed Reindeer is the longest running holiday show featuring a transvestite reindeer in the history of Chicago, and quite possibly the world. BroadwayWorld has a first look at the cast in action below!

Santa is depressed. Nobody believes in him anymore and he doesn't even believe in himself. Downsizing has taken its toll on the remaining elves. The North Pole morale and morals are at an all-time low and Mrs. Claus (Ed Jones) and her drinking have reached the point of no return.

When Tom and Jane Donner welcome the arrival of their new son, Rudolph, they are horrified to discover their new son's predilection for women's clothing and do all they can to stop him from being himself forcing Rudolph to run away from home. Can Rudolph, the North Pole's biggest misfit elf, Herbie (Chad), and Yukon Cornelia (Lori Lee, returning for her 10th year!), the butch prospector with a deep, dark secret -accidentally save Christmas?

"For me, Rudolph is first kid's story that encourages you to "just be yourself," says Artistic Director and playwright David Cerda. "It's a tale about MISFITS, and I could totally relate to Rudolph and his pain" says Cerda. "There were no anti bullying- campaigns when I was growing up. In my day, if you were picked on in your parents usually told you to stop whining and fight. I'm glad things are finally changing for kids."

This year brings Handbag a new Rudolph, Grant Drager along with puppets by Lolly Extract and Amber Marsh plus additional new cast members, Caitlin Jackson, Kirk Jackson, Shiv Mann, Jerico Bleu. Lizzie Schwarzrock as Clarice, Rudolph's love interest and Jamie Smith as Sam the Snowman.

Also returning to the show are Barbara Figgins, Terry McCarthy, David Cerda, and of course Ed Jones (again) as the Dragbeast.

For more information, visit www.handbagproductions.org.

Photo Credit: Rick Aguilar Studios

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