Doris Dear Christmas Special: An Old Fashioned Christmas
The Triad Theater158 West 72nd Street, New York 10023
Doris Dear brings An Old Fashioned Christmas to the Triad for the holiday special’s 12th season. The cabaret evening stars Doris Dear, the persona of performer Ray DeForest, with musical director Blake Allen. It combines live music, comedy and storytelling, drawing on the classic Christmas television specials of the 1950s and ’60s through holiday songs and childhood stories. An ever-changing group of guests from Broadway, jazz, opera and cabaret may join the show, making this a gathering built around seasonal material rather than a fixed billed lineup.
DeForest is a seasoned performer whose Doris Dear character anchors this annual holiday tradition. The available material does not identify his hometown, but it describes the work as a blend of humor, nostalgia and performance. Downtown Magazine called DeForest a “seasoned performer” and praised the show’s “unique blend of humor, nostalgia, and performance,” finding it engaging and entertaining. Allen returns as musical director; while prior editions have included a Holiday Orchestra and guests including singer Cooper daSilva and Leslie Carrara-Rudolph with her puppet Lolly Lardpop, those performers are not confirmed for this 2026 date.
The Triad Theater offers a classic cabaret-style experience with a seating arrangement that brings the audience close to the stage, allowing clear views and sound from nearly every seat. The room features comfortable chairs and small tables, creating a setting where you can enjoy performances ranging from musical showcases to comedy and theatrical productions. A full bar is available, encouraging guests to sip cocktails or wine as they watch, blending attentive listening with a relaxed social vibe. Shows are ticketed and often sell out, so purchasing tickets in advance is recommended. The venue hosts multiple sets on some nights, making for a full evening of entertainment. Its location in Manhattan’s Upper West Side places it within a lively neighborhood, perfect for a pre- or post-show stroll or dinner.