Ana Gasteyer brings her signature wit, charm, and holiday cheer to the Wharton Center with Sugar & Booze, Festive celebration blending timeless holiday tunes with humor and jazzy nostalgia. While Ana is widely recognized as a comedian who sings, her career trajectory tells a different story. Formally trained as a lyricist, she initially pursued music, later taking her talents into the world of comedy. This unique combination allows her to create performances that are perfect for kicking off the holiday season, Ana’s show invites audiences to embrace imperfections, savor the magic of togetherness, and even show off their best—or worst—holiday sweaters, with prizes sometimes shared to those who are all-in for the festive fun!**
On “Sugar and Booze” and Its Festive Appeal:
Your show “Sugar & Booze” is coming to the Wharton Center. What can the audience expect from this performance?
Ana describes her show as a delightful celebration of the holiday season, blending classic and whimsical holiday tunes with a jazzy twist. Inspired by old-fashioned holiday cheer, the performance promises a festive atmosphere filled with humor, music, and moments that feel like a cozy holiday party. Ana also shared that while the show is family-friendly, it’s geared more toward adults who want to kick off the holiday season with laughter and joy.
Reflecting on Family and Traditions:
How has being a parent influenced your approach to holiday performances like “Sugar & Booze”?
Ana noted that parenting has enhanced her appreciation for the warmth and chaos of the holidays. She loves the idea of creating an environment where families and friends can connect through shared traditions, even if they’re imperfect. Her album, for instance, was designed to evoke the joy of decorating trees, wrapping presents, and celebrating together, all with a nostalgic yet humorous vibe.
Embracing Holiday Chaos:
The holidays can be overwhelming for many. Do you have advice for parents trying to balance it all?
Ana emphasizes the importance of letting go of perfection and finding joy in the small moments. From lopsided homemade cookies to mismatched decorations, she believes in celebrating the authenticity of family traditions. Ana shared a personal story about using shortcuts like crockpot meals to create cozy holiday moments without added stress. Her advice: focus on connection and let the little things go.
A Nostalgic Holiday Experience:
What inspired the aesthetic and vibe of “Sugar & Booze”?
Ana revealed that her inspiration came from childhood memories of classic holiday specials and music by legends like Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra. Her goal was to craft a show and album that felt timeless yet playful, with a touch of humor. “Sugar and Booze” is her way of inviting audiences to step into a festive, old-school holiday gathering filled with charm and warmth.
This is an invitation to join Ana Gasteyer at the Wharton Center for an unforgettable evening of music, laughter, and holiday cheer. It’s a chance to experience the magic of the season with loved ones and embrace the joy of togetherness.
On Parenting Kids with a Big Age Gap:
You and I both have children six years apart. How has that shaped your experience as a parent, especially during the holidays?
Ana reflected on how the age gap has given her the chance to focus on one-on-one moments with each child. “It’s like having two separate eras of parenting, which can be both exhausting and really special,” she said. During the holidays, she appreciates how her older child gets to relive the magic of Christmas through their younger sibling, making the season even more meaningful for the whole family.
On Holiday Traditions and Finding Joy in the Simple Things:
Do you have any holiday traditions that bring your family together amid the busyness of the season?
Ana shared a cherished tradition of making French onion soup in the crockpot on Christmas Eve. “I’ll caramelize a mountain of Costco onions all day long,” she said, laughing about how the aroma would even draw in UPS drivers stopping by with packages. It’s a simple, cozy meal that feels special without adding stress. For Ana, traditions like these—along with book exchanges and scaling back on gifts—are all about prioritizing connection and creating a relaxed, joyful holiday atmosphere.
Anna – oh my – you were so generous with your time and thanks for making space in your busy day for a few minutes with Greater Lansing Area Moms! Enjoy your visit to Wharton! 🙂
And remember—As part of Ana Gasteyer’s Sugar & Booze holiday show at the Wharton Center, audience members are invited to embrace the festive spirit with their best—or most hilariously awful—holiday sweaters. The evening includes lighthearted nods to holiday fashion, with prizes sometimes awarded to those who truly dazzle (or festively horrify) with their seasonal style choices. It’s all about leaning into the joy of the season with humor and warmth! **Ana shared we could share and we would love to see it, tag @greaterlansingareamoms when you get to the show!
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