(MADISON, NJ) -- The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey (STNJ) will present its 2026 holiday production, The Gifts of the Magi from December 5-31 at the F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre in Madison. A heartwarming musical adaptation of the beloved stories by O. Henry, this enchanting production celebrates the spirit of generosity, devotion, and the true meaning of the season.
With a heartwarming book by acclaimed playwright Mark St. Germain and memorable music by Randy Courts, The Gifts of the Magi weaves together two O. Henry holiday classics — “The Gift of the Magi” and “The Cop and the Anthem.” Together, these celebrated artists bring warmth, humor, and emotional resonance to one of the most cherished holiday tales ever written.
Set in turn-of-the-century London, the story follows young newlyweds Jim and Della, who each secretly sacrifice their most treasured possession to purchase a meaningful holiday gift for the other. What unfolds is a tender and ironic reminder that love — not material wealth — is the greatest gift of all. This musical adaptation expands upon the intimate story with a delightful score, vivid theatrical storytelling, and a rich ensemble that brings the world of O. Henry’s London to vibrant life. Company favorite Paul Mullins, who has brought holiday classics like A Christmas Carol and It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play to the STNJ stage, will direct.
“Courts and Germain’s charming adaptation is a piece I have wanted to share with our audiences for quite some time,” said Artistic Director Brian B. Crowe. “With its unforgettable music and timeless story, Gifts… brings the magic of the holidays to life — celebrating generosity, love, and the joy of giving. It’s a warm, uplifting theatrical experience and a perfect holiday treat for the whole family.”
Performances take place Tuesdays — Sundays at 7:30pm; Saturdays, Sundays, and select Wednesdays at 2:00pm. Tickets will be available for purchase online or by calling the Box Office at (973) 408-5600. The F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre is located on the campus of Drew University at 36 Madison Avenue in Madison, New Jersey.
Known for its compelling Shakespeare productions and dynamic classic adaptations, STNJ remains committed to producing theatrical work that pairs creative excellence with audience-centered storytelling. The Gifts of the Magi promises to be a moving and joyous theatrical event for audiences of all ages — filled with romance, humor, and the timeless message that selfless love is the truest gift of all.
The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey (STNJ) is one of the leading Shakespeare theatres in the nation, serving approximately 40,000 adults and children annually. It is New Jersey's largest professional theatre company dedicated to Shakespeare's canon and other classic masterworks. Through its productions and education programs the company strives to illuminate the universal and lasting relevance of the classics for contemporary audiences.
The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey’s programs are made possible, in part, by funding from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. Additional major support is received from the F.M. Kirby Foundation, The MacMillan Family Foundation, The Shubert Foundation, The Edward T. Cone Foundation, The Samuel H. Scripps Foundation, CTW Foundation, The Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation, The New Jersey Cultural Trust, The Hearst Foundations, Shakespeare in American Communities, a program of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest, Union Foundation, John and Margaret Post Foundation, Provident Bank, Hyde and Watson Foundation, E.J. Grassmann Trust, Jack K. Ayre and Frank Ayre Lee Theatre Foundation, The John R. Eckel Jr. Foundation, Mimi Washington Starrett Foundation, Turrell Fund, the Merrill G. and Emita E. Hastings Foundation, and the Howard Gilman Foundation, as well as contributions from numerous other foundations, corporations, government agencies, and individuals.
