Playing outside in the snow on a frigid winter’s day is a fond childhood memory for many. Recollections of romping through cascading snowflakes and building objects from hills of snow often come to mind when thinking about this precious time. The Snowman and the Snowdog (adapted for the stage by Janet Stanford) vividly presents these cherished experiences, and Imagination Stage continues its 2025/26 programming with this enchanting tale. Stanford’s exquisite direction (in tandem with Tim Guillot’s compositions, orchestrations, and musical direction) richly brings the story to life. With a bouncy original score by Ilan Eshkeri and Andy Burrows, this enrapturing production features unforgettable tunes and a timeless fairytale storyline.
Based on the animated film of the same name, this musical tells the story of a boy named Billy who moves to a new house with his mother and loses his longtime canine companion shortly afterward. The simultaneous challenges of navigating this transition and loss deeply affect Billy, and he desperately hopes that joy will soon come his way. To lift his spirits, Billy builds a snowman in his backyard, along with a snowdog signifying companionship. They magically come alive and take Billy on a breathtaking journey through the night. This whirlwind adventure rejuvenates Billy, and after returning home, his life and outlook improve.
In a sensational performance as Billy, Drew Sharpe superbly carried the show with an effervescent stage presence. He heartwarmingly expressed both childlike wonder and poignant heartache, demonstrating remarkable versatility. Sharpe’s vibrant tenor voice was very pleasant, and his acting through song was impeccable. Lilli Hokama sweetly portrayed Billy’s mother with a caring and gentle demeanor, conveying unwavering encouragement through the family’s adversity. As Billy’s friends, Angelo and Stella, Tyler Dobies and Alexandra López each presented compassionate kindness toward Billy, cheerfully sharing in holiday celebrations and graciously accepting him into their circle.
Ryan Sellers, as the schoolteacher Mr. Good, was tremendously entertaining, hosting the school’s holiday program with colorful exuberance. Douglas Ullman Jr.’s animated personification of Santa was marked by his seasoned wisdom and jolly disposition, and his resounding baritone was an excellent match for the character. Sumié Yotsukura was charming as the Mail Person, warmly welcoming the family to their new home and delightfully displaying affection (eventually!) when their dog greeted her.
Scenic and Puppet Designer Eric J. Van Wyk outstandingly illustrated the winter setting, spellbindingly transporting the audience into the snow-covered universe. His adorable creations included a skiing penguin, a lively dog, and, most notably, the eponymous characters. These ingenious works of art were enthusiastically received, eliciting frequent gasps and hearty laughter. Van Wyk cleverly centered the set around a rotating turntable that served as a brilliant metaphor for the plot’s central transitions. Kelly Colburn’s exquisitely detailed projections beautifully enhanced the set, depicting falling snowflakes and a luminous night sky. Colburn’s projection of a letter to Santa being written in real time was particularly noteworthy, and the detail in the handwriting and drawing was remarkable. Nikki Mirza’s sweeping choreography featured sequences with twirling flags and ribbons to represent swirling snow. Her riotous country dance performed by an ensemble of snowmen was a highlight, and this number demonstrated Mirza’s expertise in staging vastly contrasting dance styles.
The Snowman and the Snowdog at Imagination Stage is a mystical journey to a whimsical winter wonderland. An ideal holiday outing for all generations, this show is the perfect kickoff for this festive season. The spirited reactions from the hundreds of captivated theatregoers, ranging from toddlers to adults, validated the universal appeal of this entrancing presentation. This show will tug at your heartstrings, evoking joy and sentimentality on all levels. What a wondrous gift for the holidays!
Running Time: One hour and 10 minutes, no intermission.
The Snowman and the Snowdog plays weekday and weekend matinees through January 4, 2026, at Imagination Stage, 4908 Auburn Ave, Bethesda, MD. Tickets (starting at $15, with dynamic pricing for more popular dates) can be purchased online, in person at Imagination Stage’s box office, or by calling the box office at 301-280-1660.
Best for ages 4–10
The Snowman and the Snowdog
Based on the animated film The Snowman and the Snowdog
Directed and adapted for the stage by Janet Stanford
Original score by Ilan Eshkeri and Andy Burrows
Compositions, orchestrations, and musical direction by Tim Guillot
Choreography by Nikki Mirza
