Stage productions feature Christmas, family themes

The Halloween candy is gone (or still hidden from the kids) and the turkey has yet to be cooked.

But some theaters are already opening Christmas shows, and all companies are offering something for the whole family.

"Annie," South Jordan Community Theatre, Nov. 13-24, Elk Ridge Middle School, 3695 W. 9800 South, South Jordan.

This new, independent theater company utilizes large casts of children and families. "Annie" has more than 80 orphans, in three casts, and 50 adults. The show also features a live orchestra. It stars Cece Otto, Angel Shelbourne and Erin Walker.

Shows are Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays, 7 p.m., with matinees available. Tickets are $8-$9 (801-747-6483 or www.sjtheatre.org).

"Children of Eden," Nov. 11-Dec. 5, Harris Fine Arts Center, Brigham Young University, Provo.

The musical telling of Adam, Eve and Noah from the book of Genesis. With music by Stephen Schwartz ("Wicked"), the show features ballads, love songs and gospel spirituals.

Shows nights vary, 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $13-$21 (801-422-4322 or www.byuarts.com).

"Nutcracker: Men in Tights," Nov. 12-Jan. 2, Desert Star Playhouse, 4861 S. State.

It's Christmastime, and a small Utah town is in financial trouble. But the town council has come up with a plan — to put on a show! Hoping to draw large crowds for their production of "The Nutcracker," they sign up a once famous dancer trying to revive his career.

The show will also include the "Christmas Wishes Olio" featuring favorite Christmas songs.

Show nights and times vary. Tickets are $8.95-$39.95 (801-266-2600 or www.desertstar.biz).

"Roundup," Utah Contemporary Theatre, through Nov. 21, Rose Wagner Theatre, 138 W. 300 South.

A weekend camping trip for three estranged brothers is meant to be a re-enactment of their father's cow camp days.

This play by Kurt Proctor celebrates the worlds of family, the Old West, the new west, cowboy poetry and legacy. It stars Greg Peters, Joe Welsch, Christopher Glade and Jacob Johnson.

Shows are Wednesdays through Sundays, 7:30 p.m., with matinees available. Tickets are $20 (801-355-2787 or www.arttix.org).

"Steel Magnolias," Nov. 11-21, Midvale MainstreetTheatre, 7711 S. Main, Midvale.