HOUSTON – Looking for a grown-ups-only night out this holiday season? Alley Theatre’s new one-woman comedy, “The Night Shift Before Christmas,” serves up humor, heart and a fresh take on seasonal tradition. Houston Life’s Lauren Kelly takes viewers behind the scenes to meet one of the actors bringing Margot’s late-night drive-thru shift to life and to tour the Neuhaus Theatre set.
The show follows Margot as she works a Christmas Eve drive-thru, contends with cranky customers and is visited by the ghost of a late best friend — forcing her to reexamine her inner Scrooge.
A stage built for one
Because the role never leaves the stage, the production packs surprises into every inch of the set. Actor Elissa Cuellar, who understudies Margot, walks through hidden props and staging choices that keep the energy constant during the 75-minute performance. The design supports quick changes in mood — from laugh-out-loud moments with drive-thru customers to quieter, emotional beats when Margot confronts loss, regret and possibility.
Why Houston audiences will love it
This is an adults-only holiday outing that still feels warm and familiar. “The Night Shift Before Christmas” blends the mischievous spirit of a seasonal comedy with honest, personal storytelling that resonates with anyone who’s worked a midnight shift or missed someone at the holidays. It’s short, sweet and perfectly timed for a post-work or date-night plan.
Show dates, location and tickets
“The Night Shift Before Christmas” runs Nov. 28–Dec. 28 in the Neuhaus Theatre. Running time is roughly 75 minutes with no intermission.
For showtimes and tickets, visit alleytheatre.org/nightshift.
Grab a friend, an adult beverage and a sense of humor — Houston’s holiday theater lineup just got a little cheekier.