A New Winter Tradition Begins
This season, we’re packing up our sleds and heading straight for the Florida Everglades, where holiday cheer sounds a little louder, burns a little brighter, and occasionally wrestles an alligator. A Christmas in Ochopee, written by Miccosukee playwright Montana Cypress, returns as New Native Theatre’s fast-growing winter tradition — a hilarious and tender celebration of family, culture, and the beautiful absurdity of coming home for the holidays.
“I can’t remember a time when I’ve giggled so much through a play as I did last weekend seeing New Native Theatre’s holiday production, A Christmas in Ochopee.”
— MinnPost
Benjamin Wilson, Mato Wayuhi, Shinaana Secody, Dallas Jennings, Jalisa McKee
Directed by Julia Rosa Sosa Chaparro and brought to life by an all-Native ensemble, this comedy carries NNT’s signature blend of cultural truth, big-hearted storytelling, and laughter that lands in your ribs. The cast also features Mato Wayuhi from the series, The Lowdown, and Reservation Dogs! We’re excited to be part of the next chapter in his career, as he’s just released his new album BYGONER, distributed by AWAL Records.
Mato Wayuhi
Ochopee is goofy, it’s tender, and it’s grounded in Native family— those sprawling, vibrant webs where everyone talks over each other, everybody brings something to the table, and chaos is just another word for love.
Jalisa McKee, Nathaniel TwoBears
This year’s production invites you to sit close, laugh hard, and celebrate the holidays Native-style: surrounded by community, fed by story, and buoyed by joy.
David Valentine, Mato Wayuhi, Sylvia Robertson
Come join us in the Everglades. It’s Christmas — miracles, mess, and maybe even a chainsaw await.
December 3-21, 2025
7:00 PM (WED-SAT)
2:00 PM (SUN)
825 Arts
825 University Ave W
St Paul, MN 55104
Tickets on sale now!
Now’s the moment to rally your crew, pick your night, and snag those seats before they're gone.
Dallas Jennings
Groups save!
Bring five or more and enjoy the holiday cheer of discounted rates. Thank your team or treat your loved ones to a new tradition they’ll love even more than matching pajamas.
To book group reservations email: boxoffice@newnativetheatre.org
