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Treat yourself to a tasteful helping of holiday humor with the wickedly truthful "The Santaland Diaries." 

Presented by Capital Stage in Old Sacramento, "Diaries" focuses on the crazy, "insane things" the holiday season tends to bring out in just about everyone - parents and hired elves alike. 

"This is an adult take on how adults act around Christmas," said Peter Mohrmann, Capital Stage manager. "We've told every Christmas story over the last few years, we really wanted to show something different."

Unlike cheery Christmas classics such as "It's a Wonderful Life," "White Christmas" and "Christmas Carol," "Diaries" has more of a "witty, sardonic and unpredictable" aftertaste, according to the Capital Stage website.  

Before David Sedaris became the best-selling author and Grammy-award nominated humorist he is today, he was an unemployed, struggling writer in New York. In a desperate attempt to make a few bucks, Sedaris was hired as "Crumpet the Elf" at the famous Santaland Macy's display in New York City.  Similar to the movie "Bad Santa," Sendaris experiences the other side of rosy cheeks and cheery Christmas tunes — exasperated holiday shoppers. 

"[Sendaris] did a reading of "The SantaLand Diaries" in Chicago in the early 90s on National Public Radio," Mohrmann said. "That is really what brought so much attention to him, it launched his career." 

The show became so popular, it is shown across the country and has become a National Public Radio annual tradition, Mohrmann added. 

Capital Stage artistic associate Janis Stevens will direct Foothill Theatre Company member Gary Alan Wright in this one-man play. Also, this one-hour play has been recommended for "Mature Elves" due to some graphic language. 

In the spirit of giving, Mohrmann hopes the comical play will excite people to see more local performances in and around the Sacramento area.

 "It is important to really see all the great theatre performances going on," he said. "That is my wish for the holiday season." 

Capital Stage is located at 1000 Front St. in Old Sacramento. "The Santaland Diaries" will hold previews starting Nov. 27 at 8 p.m.  Opening night is Dec. 3 at 8 p.m.  Ticket prices vary depending on the date and time.  The schedule can be viewed here. 

Capital Stage is also running "Dinner & Show" tickets, which features a three-course meal on the Delta King. Tickets range from $49 to $56, not including taxes or gratuities. 

Group rates and ticket discounts (students, seniors, preview days) can be viewed here. 

Tickets can be purchased here.  

"The Santaland Diaries" will conclude on Dec. 27 at 2 p.m.  

Photo courtesy Capital Stage website.