For 12 nights between Nov. 19 and Dec. 27, Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, located in Chanhassen, Minnesota, will pay tribute to local veterans with a memorable dining experience. Each night, one veteran and their three guests will enjoy dinner and a performance of “White Christmas: The Musical,” a heartwarming story about two veterans who, after World War II, help their former commanding general save his struggling inn by putting on a show.
Joel Rainville, director of marketing and sales at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, emphasizes recognizing veterans beyond traditional occasions. “It’s about letting them know that we thank them for their service and that they haven’t been forgotten,” Rainville said.
Since its founding in 1968, Chanhassen Dinner Theatres has brought a touch of Broadway to Minnesota, establishing a 56-year tradition of supporting the community. The theater has a long history of partnering with organizations that assist veterans, combat food insecurity, and aid in disaster relief. The theme of the musical inspired the theater to focus on honoring veterans in a special way.
Each honoree will receive VIP treatment, including reserved parking, personalized greetings, photo opportunities, a designated dining table, and all-inclusive food and beverage service. The theater will also feature announcements and signage recognizing the veteran’s attendance. An audience spotlight will allow attendees to express their appreciation, and honorees will be celebrated on social media.
The event is possible through a partnership with Comcast, which provides tickets and meals for the veterans and their families.
“Through this special sponsorship with Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, we’re humbled by the opportunity to honor these veterans and their families on 12 special nights this holiday season,” said Stacey Nelson-Kumar, director of community impact for Comcast’s Midwest Region.
Jon Lovald, an Army veteran and chief operating officer for the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MAC-V), played a crucial role in selecting the honorees. MAC-V supports over 1,700 veterans annually with services, including housing stability, healthcare navigation, legal aid, and employment assistance.
Comcast has worked with MAC-V to provide stable internet systems, affordable internet plans, and devices to help veterans stay connected to educational and employment opportunities.
“We’re proud to partner with local organizations that support veterans, service members, and military families in Chanhassen and across the region,” Nelson-Kumar continues.
Other local organizations include Every Third Saturday and the Chanhassen Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).
While Veterans Day has passed, Lovald reminds us that supporting veterans remains essential year-round.
“Veterans Day, you know, it’s a huge deal. That’s when everyone thinks about veterans,” Lovald said. “But this particular event highlights a veteran not just on Veterans Day, and I think that’s important.”
He encouraged volunteering time, energy, and resources in ways that align with your skills.
“People don’t have to do anything extraordinary,” he said. “You can help by just doing what you do.” He added, “If you think a veteran needs help, just assume they do because it’s hard for veterans to ask for help.”
To learn more about how you can support veterans, visit MAC-V’s volunteer page. For more information about Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, visit CDT-White Christmas. Learn more about how Comcast supports veterans by visiting Comcast Military Engagement.