Pasek and Paul replace Scott Davenport Richards, who originally wrote the music and lyrics for the world premiere at the Kansas City Repertory Theatre in 2009. The musical, based on the Jean Shepherd stories and 1983 film of the same title, broke box-office records at KC Rep. The Kansas City run had been billed as a pre-Broadway engagement.

Original book writer Joseph Robinette, director Eric Rosen and choreographer Kelly Devine will return for the Seattle premiere of the latest incarnation of A Christmas Story, which will run Nov. 30-Dec. 19. The 5th Avenue Theatre has served as the testing ground for such Broadway musicals as Hairspray, Memphis, The Wedding Singer, Shrek and the upcoming Catch Me If You Can.

The Seattle run of A Christmas Story will also feature the original design team, including Walt Spangler (scenic design), Elizabeth Hope Clancy (costume design), Larry Blank (orchestrations) and Ian Eisendrath (musical direction). Newly added is lighting designer Howell Binkley.

Based on the stories of radio humorist Jean Shepherd, the classic holiday story follows Ralphie Parker, whose holiday wish is a Red Ryder 200 Shot Carbine Action Air Rifle. The 1940s-set comedy follows Ralphie through his holiday campaign for the gift of his dreams, complete with a visit to Santa at Higbee's Department Store, a racy lamp, the family's exploding furnace, an experiment with a wet tongue on a cold lamppost and more.

Tickets for the 5th Avenue production go on sale to the general public Aug. 17. Visit 5thAvenue.