The holidays can be a cold and lonely time of year. They certainly are for protagonist John Dale in A Rented Christmas, a play with musical inclinations set during the Great Depression. In the production based on J. Lillian Vandervere’s short story, Dale—a businessman without family—seeks to change his situation, believing that “money can buy happiness,” which includes everything from a Christmas-tree skirt to an angel on top of the tree to carolers to a wife and five children.

He turns to the local rental shop, where shopkeeper Anne Weston encounters several problems in crafting his perfect Christmas. Ultimately, Anne rents out herself as his wife. Dale and Anne are joined by a cast of excellent singers who’ll perform classic carols alongside original songs.

Of course, it’s not about “things” but about “love,” and the audience will root for Dale’s heart against all odds. This quirky take on Christmas tales is original and off the wall.

A Rented Christmas @ Egyptian Theatre, 328 Main, Park City, 435-649-9371, Dec. 10-23, 7:30 p.m., Saturday matinee 2 p.m., $15-$20. ParkCityShows.com