Sing Hosanna! is offering Christmas in July as the group hangs the final trimmings on its summer dinner show production, “Santa Claustrophobia.”

The tale has all the trappings of the holiday. See what happens when some familiar Christmas characters get stuck in a shopping mall elevator.

The show, under the direction of Ralph Christy Jr., will feature some silliness along with a hearty meal.

The role of Santa is filled by Matt Nocera of Butler, a chemistry teacher at Butler Intermediate High School and one of the newer Sing Hosanna! actors.

“My sense of humor and comedic timing have been strengths to play a grumpy Santa Claus,” said Nocera about this unique portrayal of Jolly Old Saint Nick.

The set is a tight space and can be a little too close for comfort, Nocera said.

“I am on stage with the other seven actors at the same time. I’ve had to learn how to listen to everyone and work in a very small space,” he said.

Nocera thinks the show will give people a new perspective on Christmas at the mall.

Dale Riemer of Jefferson Township is thrilled to be playing Elf.

“After doing so many shows, I still love being able to ‘act the fool’ as someone else and make people laugh. Today’s world could use more laughter,” Riemer said.

She has been performing with Sing Hosanna! for more than 20 years.

“As always with this type of comedy, you must be willing to do whatever it takes to make the audience laugh,” she said.

“The audience can expect to spend some time away from the cares and problems of their lives laughing at these people who each handle this ‘emergency’ in their own way,” Riemer added.

Trish Canedy of Summit Township said she can relate to her role as a claustrophobic mom.

“I think it is art imitating life during the holiday shopping season,” she said.

Also starring are Ruth Nellis, Maxwell McAuley, Nikki Ambrose, Abigail McAuley and Genevieve Archer.

The menu includes barbecued pork chops, cheesy potatoes, green beans with bacon, rolls and butter, topped off with a variety of Christmas cookies.