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PHOTOS from "The Wag's Christmas Spectacular" at The Strand

By John Posada

originally published: 12/15/2022


(LAKEWOOD, NJ) -- On Saturday, December 10, The Wag's Christmas Spectacular came to The Strand Theater in Lakewood. Steeped in the traditions of holiday TV shows of the past, The Wag brings back the memories of these specials while putting their own unique stamp on them. Their show has all of the holiday songs that you know and love, plus dance numbers, costume changes, and comedy sketches, along with some fun surprises - including a few original Christmas/Holiday songs! Photographer John Posada was on hand to take photos.

The Wag’s sense of humor and their homemade props and costumes are worth the price of admission alone. The show also features a running theme of “Christmas Around the World”. There will be holiday songs and sketches from Ireland, Germany, Spain, & more! The Wag's Christmas Spectacular is sure to please the entire family. 

If you missed the show at The Strand, there's one more chance to catch The Wag's Christmas Spectacular - they will be at The Middletown Arts Center on Saturday, December 17th, from 7:00pm - 9:00pm. The venue is located at 36 Church Street in Middletown, New Jersey. This is a benefit for the local SPCA.

"The Monmouth County SPCA has benefitted from the talent and generosity of The Wag for the last 20 years," said Executive Director Ross Licitra, "This holiday season, we are especially excited to partner with The Wag for a Christmas Spectacular that will not only be fun for the entire family, but will help to find new homes and resources for the many abused, abandoned and homeless animals we care for."

The band consists of Brian Ostering (Bass and vocals); Alicia Van Sant (Keyboards, vocals, percussion, some flute, occasional guitar); Don Lee (Guitar and vocals); and Joshua Van Ness (Drums, percussion, guitar and vocals).




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Special guests for the show are expected to include: Ralph Capasso, Joe Lisa, Michael Brett, Daria Raguseo, Gracie Spina, William Boudiette, Dennis Keefe, and James Ostering.

Tickets are on sale for $15.00, and available at http://www.thewagband.com/store or at the door.

Here are more photos from the show at The Strand.

About the author:

John Posada is a New Jersey based photographer specializing in photographing live theatre and music performances. Currently, John has spent the last 6 years concentrating on photographing almost 400 theater productions at over 70 different NJ theatres. Click here for John's website.





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EVENT PREVIEWS

(NEWTON, NJ) -- The Newton Theatre presents Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives on Wednesday, August 12, 2026 at 7:00pm. In a career spanning over 50 years, dozens of albums, and too many shows to count, Marty Stuart charts a course through new territory at every chance possible.
BoDeans - 40th Anniversary Tour comes to Newton Theatre in August

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(NEWTON, NJ) -- BoDeans are celebrating the 40th anniversary of their critically acclaimed debut album, Love & Hope & Sex & Dreams, in 2026. In honor of the anniversary, the band has a special tour planned which comes to The Newton Theatre on Friday, August 14, 2026 at 8:00pm.
Music Box at the Borgata presents The Marshall Tucker Band on August 14th

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(MORRISTOWN, NJ) -- Christone "Kingfish" Ingram has been announced as the headliner for the 2026 Morristown Jazz & Blues Festival. The free festival will be held on Saturday, August 15th on the Green. The music begins at noon and runs until 10:00pm. The lineup also includes James Langton New York All-Star Big Band, Richard Baratta Gotham City Latin/Jazz Septet, LaBamba and the Hubcaps, and Dylan Triplett.
The Newton Theatre presents Supernova: A Tribute to Oasis on August 15th

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(NEWTON, NJ) -- Supernova: A Tribute to Oasis comes to The Newton Theatre on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 8:00pm. They are an Oasis tribute band obsessed with recreating the raw energy, intensity and swagger of a real Oasis gig.

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(ATLANTIC CITY, NJ) -- The inaugural RE-WIND 69' Music Festival at Showboat Resorts Garden Pier takes place August 14-16, 2026 - the anniversary weekend of the original Woodstock 1969 festival. This is a spectacular revival of a moment in American history when music united generations, healed communities, and sparked cultural change. For three unforgettable days, Atlantic City becomes a living time capsule, bringing the spirit of Woodstock and 1969 back to life through world-class recreations of the now legendary musical performances by a dynamic mix of New Jersey musicians along with national and international touring acts.

Widespread Panic to Play Three Nights at Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena

(ATLANTIC CITY, NJ) -- Widespread Panic is taking over Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena for three nights from August 14-16, 2026 with shows at 8:00pm each night. The popular jam band has been together over three decades. Tickets are available for each show individually or as a 3-Day Pass.

The Temptations to Bring the Motor City to the Ocean City Boardwalk on August 18th

(OCEAN CITY, NJ) -- Legendary Motown group The Temptations look to continue their celebrated touring schedule with a summer stop at America's Greatest Family Resort, Ocean City, New Jersey on Tuesday, August 18, 2026. The Rock & Roll Hall of Famers and multiple GRAMMY Award winners celebrate more than six decades of hits with their acclaimed live performances, remain one of the most enduring and influential groups in American popular music. Renowned worldwide for their signature harmonies, impeccable choreography, and an iconic catalog of timeless hits, their legacy continues to span generations.

Prudential Center presents Reggae stars Beres Hammond and Beenie Man on August 20th

(NEWARK, NJ) -- Newark will see a night of reggae's best when Beres Hammond and Beenie Man perform live at Prudential Center on Saturday, August 20, 2026 at 8:00pm. Experience the artistry of Beres Hammond, one of Jamaica's most esteemed vocalists, as he graces the stage with Marcia Griffiths and Baby Cham. It will be an exceptional evening featuring the captivating performances of reggae music, showcasing soulful melodies and heartfelt expressions.
 

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