Cranky Crumpet

When David Sedaris wrote the Santaland Diaries, a humorous, slightly acidic commentary for public radio, he never could have envisioned that it would become a Christmas staple. But his mini-memoir of his days as an elf named Crumpet in Macy’s Santaland complex has become as ubiquitous during the holidays as fruitcake jokes. This is a can’t-miss satire of Christmas crazies, with just enough heart to make you wish there really were a Santa and a battalion of elves. The Cleveland Public Theatre production opens tonight at 7:30 at the Outcalt Theatre on Playhouse Square, with performances through Dec. 21. Tickets are $30. (Howey)