Tugging, pulling, pushing and whining -- it sounds like the essence of holiday cheer. Even more than that, it's "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever."

The heartwarming and humorous production by the Valley Center Playhouse is a theatrical adaptation of Barbara Robinson's 1972 book by the same title.

Beginning Friday, follow the Herdmans -- a rowdy, obnoxious family -- as they discover the true meaning of Christmas by taking part in their church play.

"This story is really a modern-day classic," said theater owner Jody Renstrom, who is directing the production for her 20th year. "It's not only funny and adorable, but very touching."

Two worlds collide when the Herdman children begin going to Sunday school after they hear that free treats are offered to those who attend. The announcement of the church's annual Christmas pageant piques the interest of the boisterous Imogene Herdman, so much so that she signs up her entire family for the lead roles. And because Imogene is the pack leader of her siblings, they follow her wishes, which includes her starring as Mary in the play.

"The lady who wrote this was a genius because she captures what children would really say and do," Renstrom said. "All the parents who come watch the play just about die laughing, because they can really relate."

With the help of the Herdmans, the pageant cast transforms from a group of smiling, little angels to a cast that blackmails, punches, steals and bites.

But the pageant may still have a chance of success with the help of Grace Bradley, a patient but unlucky mother who takes charge of the play after the director, Helen Armstrong, breaks her leg.

With 40 children making up the real cast, ranging from 8-13 in age, Renstrom said she sometimes feels like Grace Bradley herself, because the directing is so much fun and almost as crazy.

"Christmas time is so magical for kids," said Pleasant Grove resident Katie Van Dyke, playing the role of Grace Bradley. "The commercial aspect of it can be a lot of fun, but sometimes it can overshadow the real purpose of Christmas, and this play is such a wonderful reminder of what the holiday really means."