This is an original "framework" play, suitable for a seasonal Christmas concert/pageant/musical production.

The Search for the Spirit of Christmas is a "spoof" of a Sherlock Holmes' investigation. In this case, the two main characters are Det. McSneak and Det. McSnoop.

For a school Christmas concert or musical presentation, the challenge is to mesh diverse class or group performances into a unified and seamless whole. This Sherlock Holmes spoof (which runs about 60 minutes) provides that framework. By using the "Pink Panther" theme as classes exit and the detectives re-enter, there should be no gaps in the flow of your production.

Each class performs a musical presentation of its own choosing (up to 8 separate performances) between interludes where there is dialogue between the two detectives as they continue their search for the meaning of Christmas.

The detectives' on-going "search" becomes the unifying link with a strong message at the end that the Spirit of Christmas is simply a feeling (love, joy and laughter)...and to search for clear, physical evidence is a waste of time!

Their problem is ultimately solved by the arrival of Santa, the symbol of generosity and good cheer who can "save their necks"...and their jobs!

This structure can be adapted to the needs of the community and the number of participants. It has been used successfully with 100 to 200 participants. (8 classes of 25 students.)

"Elementary, my dear... McSneak!"