I bought tickets for myself and my adult son for a Christmas present because one of our dearest Christmas traditions is watching this movie.
I did NOT expect the musical to be just like the movie, but there aren't enough words to express my disappointment. If Jean Shepherd were still alive, he would be so appalled.
Let's start with the acting. The only one who was at all passable was the Old Man - he was actually quite enchanting. The woman who played Mom was terrible, so wooden and overblown. She could sing (amazing) but that was about all.
Ralphie - well - he was absolutely terrible. Nasal singing, whiny voice, not at all compelling.
The writing of this musical was even worse. Yes, they ported over some lines from the movie, but they totally missed the style that Jean Shepherd intended when he wrote this... And the ending...?? Oh my god. Beat us to death with the POINT. The charm of the movie original was that it didn't HAVE to beat you over the head with its POINT, because it made it subtly and sweetly.
So disappointed. If I could demand my money back, I would.