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Casa Manana’s annual holiday show is always a great way to kick off the season. And this year’s production of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer did it just right. The music, the costumes and the colorful sets showcased what makes Casa shows a must-see.

The show follows the well-known story of our red-nosed friend and his troubles with the other reindeer. We are introduced to a very tall elf named Randolph who befriends Rudolph when they find themselves cast off from their respective groups.

This story of friendship and acceptance is told by our favorite jolly man in red who makes a special appearance in Fort Worth to play himself. The lesson learned is that sometimes our differences are what make us special.

The good: Jessica Foster in the title role is terrific. (Yes, Rudolph is played by a girl, but my 8-year-old son accepted that with no questions.) Foster has an amazing voice, and clever choreography makes her performances shine. She is perfectly matched with Jim Johnson as Randolph, and Jan Roeten as Mrs. Claus for the two best songs in the show.  The other reindeer are terrific, too, especially in the Team Santa’s Sleigh rap.

The bad: If you’re looking for holiday songs your little ones will recognize you have to wait until the second act. But then there are three you’ll be able to sing along to.

What kids will like: The reindeer games scene is a real hit. Santa’s team takes the stage in terrific uniforms to Olympic music. They each take a turn on the trampoline, which is pretty amazing. And the finale always brings oohs and ahhs from the crowd when Santa parades through the audience in his sleigh and it snows inside the Casa dome.

What parents should know: The show runs a little over an hour and a half, with a 15-minute intermission. Bring your pocketbook. Candy, sodas, juice, water and other snacks are available at intermission. Rudolph and Santa-inspired toys are also for sale in the lobby. And your child can have his or her picture made with Santa after the show for $10.

(Hint: Bring your camera and wait around a few minutes after the show. The other characters come into the lobby to sign autographs and pose for photos for free.)

Hit or miss: Definitely a happy holiday hit!

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Sponsored by Target
Fridays at 7 p.m.; Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Sundays at 2 p.m. through Dec. 21
Tickets are $17 and $19; special group rates are available
Appropriate for children up to 10 years old