Courtesy ‘The Nutcracker: A Comic Suite' adds a funny bone to the ballet classic ‘The Nutcracker' and features legendary comedians such as Lucille Ball, the Marx Brothers and Charlie Chaplin

Richard Rosen believes in the healing power of laughter, so much so that he's incorporating the principle into his latest production at the Magik Theatre.

Rosen, the Magik's executive director, is also the co-writer/director for “The Nutcracker: A Comic Suite,” which runs through Saturday, Dec. 22. A comic spin on the holiday-themed ballet classic “The Nutcracker,” “The Nutcracker: A Comic Suite” tells a similar story, albeit one featuring legendary comedians such as Lucille Ball, the Marx brothers, Abbott and Costello and Charlie Chaplin.

The Magik Theatre's comedic take centers on a sick young girl, a former dancer whose illness has rendered her unable to pursue her passion. As she lies in bed one night, the girl is visited by a host of legendary comedians who give their humorous take on “The Nutcracker.”

“Imagine them having a heaven for great comics,” Rosen said. “They come together every year because they have a need to make people laugh all the time. They come together to perform in situations where young people are in need.”

Though the Magik Theatre typically caters to younger children, Rosen expects this production to span beyond those boundaries, primarily because of its holiday relevance and comedic timing.

“Most of our shows are for families ..... but when you come as an adult, we want you to have just as much fun as your child does,” he said.

Rosen and his colleagues are expecting to reach quite a few people, so reservations are required.

CLINT HALE | 210SA