A Moncton-based drag artist is bringing holiday cheer to Halifax with Jingle Belle: A Cabaret that Sleighs.
Starring Mrs. Ruby Claus, played by creator CJ Norris, this special night is one stop on a three-city tour across the Maritimes, with the show also coming to Moncton and Charlottetown. As Ruby tells the story of her work behind the scenes to make sure Santa’s sleigh leaves on time, she will spark joy with songs from the likes of Aretha Franklin, Patti LaBelle, Ariana Grande and Kelly Clarkson, going full diva for a performance packed with positivity.
“It’s really telling Ruby’s story, at least, my version of her story, and going a little bit back into her history, her relationship with Christmas and the North Pole, and how she feels like an unsung hero, and now she’s stepping into her own spotlight,” says Norris in an interview with The Coast. “It’s really to shed a light on the unseen and thankless work that a lot of people do to make holiday magic happen, and then also just to uplift spirits, no matter who they are or what their relationship is to the holidays.”
Norris says the audience can expect a diverse catalogue of tunes throughout the night, including medleys, mashups, sing-alongs, dance-alongs, and some chaotic games mixed in. Actor and singer Cat McCluskey will be guest-starring at the Halifax show.
“I like to make it a bit like a Carol Burnett variety show. She’s one of my biggest influences,” he says. “It’s basically all of my favourite things about my favourite women in music and comedy that I’ve put together into this package.”
Norris has a history of putting on and starring in drag and theatre productions across Atlantic Canada. He toured his previous Christmas show Flying Solo in 2021 and has also acted on Moncton’s Capitol Theatre stage as Scuttle in The Little Mermaid and Pugsley in The Addams Family.
As for why Norris is taking this show abroad, it’s fairly simple: to spread some queer joy during the holiday season.
“I’ll take a page from Jinx Monsoon and BenDeLaCreme. They do an annual holiday drag show as well, and they talk about creating a safe space and a tradition for queer folks who have strained relationships with family. I hope to also be creating that same sort of space.”
Yet, the show is also to open people’s minds and allow for queer acceptance.
“Last year, I had a young trans man come with his parents, and with my parents, and sit in the front row and have those opportunities to cushion relationships who may have had a complicated past, and to sort of create a nice, joyful sigh of relief. Like, everything’s going to be okay,” says Norris. “That’s what it feels like in the room.”
If you want to experience a holiday show that’s sure to be a highlight of the year, grab your tickets here. The show starts at 8pm at the Bus Stop Theatre on Nov. 28. All ages welcome.