Joe works in a factory in Sleepy, Illinois (population 175), where he makes twist ties for garbage bags.

Joe’s on-and-off girlfriend, Debbie, is trying to finish beauty school. She dreams of marrying Joe and settling down in a double-wide trailer.

Joe has other dreams: of playing Santa Claus in the local Christmas parade. Debbie thinks he’s foolish. But Joe’s real obstacle is Big Red Hardman, a local who always wins the annual Santa Claus audition.

Lenny and Shirley (Joe’s best friends) supply emotional support and a B-plot comedic romance. They also introduce Joe to Judy, an out-of-towner who shares Joe’s holiday dream. 

One Day in December, a 15-minute, five-character rom-com, was first produced in 2005 by Theatre Building Chicago, directed by Allan Chambers, with musical direction by Jeff Bouthiette.

The score is peppered with 15-second radio jingles.