The unmissable shows to see in December

If your Christmas playlist oscillates between Vive le vent and Mariah Carey's hits, if you swear by musicals, and if your dream is to find the partner who will do the Dirty Dancing lift almost as well as Patrick Swayze, you're in the right place. Our podium of waahouuu shows to book in December? The real story of Santa Claus in the very heart of the Latin Quarter for a magical immersive journey, or two legendary musicals to choose from: Les Misérables to feel the thrill of unforgettable classics, or Dirty Dancing to relive every shiver of the hottest love story in cinema. It’s up to you to choose your dose of magic!

For whom: Families who love immersive experiences.

The pitch: Do you know how Santa Claus came to do this job? At the Grand Hôtel des Rêves, you will discover his true story... The young and lovely Solange arrives in a witch's shop, asking her to repair her locket inherited from her mother. That’s where she learns the secret surrounding her parents: they supposedly knew Santa Claus back when he didn’t yet have his white beard and round belly. Following in Solange’s footsteps, who uncovers her parents’ youthful stories, you’ll follow the young Yule, curiously named after one of the oldest winter solstice celebrations... The young man unveils his fantastic world of witches, magical wardrobes, gift shops, and endless sweets, leading to an understanding of what drove him to begin his iconic rounds on the night of December 24 to 25.

Why we love it? Whatever your age (and your kids’ age!), you will LOVE this ultra-comforting family show. Throughout a totally unexpected journey (without spoilers, you’ll walk through wardrobes and chimneys), children and adults alike will marvel at the story being told. A true immersive show that sweeps you into a whirlwind of enchanting sets and incredible costumes.

The Real Story of Santa Claus, the Grand Hôtel des Rêves, 47 rue du Cardinal Lemoine, Paris 5th. Until January 5. Starting at €19, bookings online.
© Ségolène Pommeret

For whom: Those who studied L and show off by quoting Victor Hugo.

The pitch: Do we still need to introduce Alain Boublil's musical Les Misérables? Fantine, Javert, Gavroche, and the others all answer the call at the Théâtre du Châtelet. Quick recap: Jean Valjean is perpetually pursued by Inspector Javert for breaking the rules of his parole. He promises a dying Fantine to take care of her little girl, Cosette. Tough luck: he has to rescue the child from the vicious Thénardier couple and then save Cosette’s lover, determined to die on the barricades during the 1832 riots.

Why we love it: Absolute crush on this quasi-immersive musical: actors descend into the audience, waving flags and singing, integrating spectators into their songs and giving the people an incredible mass effect. The best of the best? The children portraying Cosette and Gavroche are played by child actors, whose pure voices and on-stage energy give Victor Hugo's iconic story unmatched power. A timeless social tragedy, with breathtaking sets that transport you to a Paris in flames and chaos. When the barricades rise to the ceiling of the stage, you almost feel like grabbing a red flag yourself: actors in tattered rags climb and fire shots, immersing you in the electric and dangerous atmosphere of the early 19th century, up close with the poor, the unfortunate, the Misérables... A must-see at least once in your life.

Les Misérables, Théâtre du Châtelet, 1 Place du Châtelet, Paris 1st. Until January 2, 2025. From €12 to €119.
© Thomas Amouroux

For whom? Clearly your hysterical BFF obsessed with this cinema masterpiece and eternally in love with Patrick Swayze (we see you there).

The pitch? In the 60’s in the United States, naïve Baby wants to save the world. One beautiful summer, the teenager arrives with her family at a very chic vacation camp offering a variety of activities. The sexy dancer Johnny Castle is in charge of making the neglected wives swing. During a party organized by the staff (fans of dances far more suggestive than the fox trots of the hotel guests), Baby and Johnny exchange a few close, tight dance moves. Love at first sight? Not exactly, but rather the promise of a new kind of desire for the young woman, completely captivated by the allure of this surprising bad boy. Fate will take care of bringing them together...

Why we love it: Far from being a mere dance film, Dirty Dancing has inspired generations of feminists and unleashed passions. At the Dôme de Paris, a spectacular troupe is set to energize fans and other lovers of grand shows worthy of the West End, performing memorable songs we all know by heart ([I’ve Had] The Time of My Life, Cry to Me, Be My Baby, Hungry Eyes...). What we love: the legendary love story perfectly portrayed, stunning choreography, and an impressive fidelity to the film that will delight even the most demanding fans. On the casting side, nothing has been left to chance: singers, dancers, and musicians handpicked and trained to perfection. If one actor shines, it’s Michael O’Reilly, who earns the standing ovation: this West End phenomenon played Johnny Castle for over five years and has established himself as “the best Johnny Castle of the last 20 years.” The highlight of the show? The iconic finale on I’ve Had the Time of My Life, where the audience can’t help but scream. Goosebumps guaranteed!

Dirty Dancing, Dôme de Paris, 34 Boulevard Victor, Paris 15th, from November 22 to January 26, 2025. From €38.20, bookings online.
©Laura Gilli