Leisure and Lifestyle

The Unauthorized Hallmark(ish) Parody Musical to Premiere in Toronto This Holiday Season

Broadway-style holiday spoof brings small-town romance, pop showtunes, and festive fun to The Royal Theatre

TORONTO — Toronto’s holiday entertainment lineup is getting a major dose of sparkle and satire this season with the world premiere of The Unauthorized Hallmark(ish) Parody Musical, running November 20, 2025, to January 4, 2026, at The Royal Theatre.

The all-new musical comedy reimagines the familiar tropes of holiday TV movies — from cookie-baking contests and rekindled romances to big-city executives rediscovering small-town charm — with a hilarious, self-aware twist.

The show is directed by Tim Drucker (Friends Parody Musical, Trixie & Katya LIVE) and choreographed by Brooke Engen (Hairspray, Beetlejuice, Rock of Ages). It was written by Tim Drucker and Tony Award-winner Bonnie Milligan (Kimberly Akimbo), featuring music by Joel Waggoner (Carolnder, School of Rock) and lyrics by Drucker, Milligan, and Waggoner.

“The songs in this show are original, silly, and also SLEIGH MAMA! I dare you to come multiple times…and sing along!” says Joel Waggoner, composer and lyricist.


A Familiar Story — With a Festive Twist

The Unauthorized Hallmark(ish) Parody Musical follows Holly, a career-driven city executive who’s reluctantly sent back to her whimsical hometown to help her mother run the family business. There, she reconnects with her ex-boyfriend Mark, now the local sheriff, and becomes entangled in a scandal involving the town’s beloved cookie contest.

As the snow falls and secrets unravel, Holly faces the ultimate question — love or career? Featuring catchy original songs like “Love or Career” and “It Feels Like Christmas Because It Is Literally Christmas,” the musical pokes fun at predictable movie clichés while celebrating the warmth of friendship, community, and seasonal chaos.


Star-Studded Cast and Creative Team

The world premiere cast features:

  • Alexandra Clementi as Holly

  • Sean Meldrum as Mark

  • Heidi Michelle Thomas as Cookie

  • Emily Richardson as Merry

  • Luke Witt as Cody

  • Alyssa Lyn (Swing)

  • Levi Stepp (Swing)

Creative Team:
Director: Tim Drucker
Writers: Tim Drucker & Bonnie Milligan
Music: Joel Waggoner
Lyrics: Tim Drucker, Bonnie Milligan & Joel Waggoner
Choreography: Brooke Engen
Casting: Adam Martino


Ticket Information

Tickets for The Unauthorized Hallmark(ish) Parody Musical range from $41 to $98, including fees. Group rates are available for parties of six or more by contacting Lori@FirstClassGroupTickets.com or calling 647-201-3349.

Tickets can be purchased at Hallmarkish.com and through Fever.


Where and When

📍 Venue: The Royal Theatre, Toronto
📅 Dates: November 20, 2025 – January 4, 2026


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Tiana Squire

Tiana Squire is our Leisure and Lifestyle Writer, dedicated to covering a wide array of topics including restaurants & bars, fashion, travel and tourism, family events and entertainment. With a passion for exploring and sharing the best in leisure experiences, Tiana brings her unique perspective and enthusiasm to each piece she writes. For inquiries or feedback, contact Tiana at tiana.squire@gtaweekly.ca.

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