There are few things that bring me as much joy during the holidays as Bob Clark's masterpiece "A Christmas Story." Perhaps the smiles on my kids' faces as they open up their gifts on Christmas morning, snuggling next to my wife in front of the fireplace on Christmas Eve, and getting together with family and friends for a healthy dose of holiday spirit, but that's about it. "A Christmas Story" comes in a close fourth!

Based on the wonderfully charming memoirs of humorist Jean Shepherd, "A Christmas Story" not only inspires that undeniably warm and fuzzy feeling inside, but it also manages to capture the unforgettable spirit of youth.

When word surfaced that veteran producers Garry Peter Morris and Kent Harrison Hayes (the dynamic duo behind "Songs From the Stage: A Concert in Kayenta") had optioned the rights to Philip Grecian's stage adaptation of "A Christmas Story" for a month-long run at The Electric Theater, I was immediately overcome with that previously mentioned warm and fuzzy feeling. Just the idea of getting to see these vibrant characters live on stage had me positively giddy.

Suffice it to say, I was ecstatic when Morris and Hayes invited me to sit in on a dress rehearsal for their stage adaptation of what I believe to be the definitive holiday masterwork (for the record, "It's a Wonderful Life" is a classic of iconic proportions, but "A Christmas Story" hit me in a special way while I was growing up). 

For those of you who aren't familiar with "A Christmas Story" (I'm guessing that number is somewhere between one and three), here's a brief overview: "A Christmas Story" revolves around young Ralphie Parker and his many adventures during one extraordinary holiday season. When Ralphie isn't being pushed around by the villainous Scut Farkus or having his mouth washed out with soap, he's keeping his eyes on the ultimate Christmas prize: "An Official Red Ryder Carbine-Action Two-Hundred-Shot Range Model Air Rifle with a Compass in the Stock and this thing which tells time." Careful, kid. You might shoot your eye out.

While I have yet to see an entire run-through of the show, I've seen enough to know that this charming adaptation is very much in keeping with the tone of Bob Clark's film. The story has been streamlined a bit and some scenes rearranged. There are also some welcome additions (including a sweet bond between Ralphie and a cutie pie named Esther Jane). As for the most memorable moments from the timeless source material – the tongue sticking to the pole, the infamous leg lamp scene, Ralphie in the pink bunny suit, etc. – I'm happy to report that all these moments remain firmly intact. 

"A Christmas Story" was directed by Kent Harrison Hayes – a seasoned producer, director and actor who’s gone to great lengths to ensure that this play evokes the same sort of childlike sense of innocence, exuberant joy and grand holiday cheer delivered by both Clark's seminal film and Shepherd's heartfelt memoirs. Technically, Hayes and his expert crew have done a remarkable job with the stage design, and they've also come up with a clever way to showcase Ralphie's imaginative daydream sequences. 

The lively cast is terrific across the board. Standouts include charismatic stage veteran Roger Dunbar (while there certainly is a hint of original Old Man Darren McGavin in there, this hilariously spirited turn also has shades of Ralph Kramden, and – if you can believe it – Yogi Bear), Jove Tripp-Thompson (who plays Ralphie with a welcome sense of wonder and wide-eyed glee), Jada Mae Facer (positively adorable as love-struck Esther Jane), Ivy Rose Dunbar (as little Randy Parker, she's as cute as a bug's ear), and co-producer Garry Peter Morris (who brings sincerity and warmth to the role of an older, wiser Ralphie). This wonderful ensemble is rounded out by the considerable talents of Lori Olsen (Mother, Winged Monkey), Tamari Dunbar (Miss Shields, The Wicked Witch), Max Dunbar (Flick), Shane Hecksel (Schwartz), Isaak Hunt (Scut Farkus), Brooke Irelyn Meadows (Helen), and Tyler Lapham (Christmas Elf).

If you're looking for something extra special to do with the family this holiday season, then "A Christmas Story" is the perfect choice. It doesn't matter if you've seen the film hundreds of times. Seeing it live is an entirely new experience. Watching this talented cast put their own stamp on Jean Shepherd's magical memoirs is worth the price of admission alone. Besides, who in their right mind could ever tire of "A Christmas Story?" Not I!

Here's to hoping that Morris and Hayes' take on "A Christmas Story" becomes a St. George holiday tradition. If the dress rehearsal is any indication, in coming years, this show may just play around the clock just like the film does on TBS every Christmas Day.

"A Christmas Story" runs through December 21 at The Electric Theater (68 E. Tabernacle). Tickets are $15 to $20. For more information, including show times, log onto www.manoftwoworlds.com or www.theelectrictheater.com. Or call 435-652-8318.