By Michele Robertson
Get into the Christmas Spirit with the Carlsbad Community Theatre’s winter play An O’Henry Christmas, by Howard Burman, directed by Mannie Bemis and assisted by Sarah Jones. The show opens at 7 p.m. on Friday, December 6.
“I have loved O. Henry’s stories since meeting him in the pages of a book when I was a child. His agile use of the language, along with the surprise twist at the end of each story, make him one of the great masters of the American short story. It is a pleasure to bring his stories to life on the CCT stage with such a talented and dedicated cast and crew. An O. Henry Christmas will put you in the holiday spirit this Christmas season,” Bemis said.
The CCT website gives the following synopsis: “After escaping wrongful imprisonment, a mysterious storyteller enters an abandoned railroad spur on the outskirts of New York City, Christmas Eve, 1893. In exchange for some hobo stew, “O.P.” entertains a ragtag mix of seemingly lost souls by spinning a few tales and, in the process, rekindles the spirit of giving. Through each story, the essence of generosity and the true spirit of Christmas began to burn anew in their hearts. By the time the last tale was spun, the air was thick with a renewed sense of camaraderie and shared humanity, proving that even in the most desolate corners, the magic of giving could still flourish.”
“I am excited to be a part of An O’Henry Christmas. The Community Theatre is where I discovered my love for the theatre, so it seems fitting it will be the place where I first assist with directing a play. Mannie was also my high school theatre teacher, making it even more special that I can help her bring this play to life. The play is about the true meaning of Christmas, and no matter where we are in life, we can help someone else out and share love for one another,” said Jones.
Additional dates for the play are 7-9 p.m. Saturday, December 7; 2:30-4:30 p.m. Sunday, December 8; 7-9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, December 13-14; with the final showing 2:30-4:30 p.m. Sunday, December 15.
To purchase tickets, visit the website at https://www.carlsbadnmtheatre.com/.
Tickets may also be purchased at the box office, Angee’s Flowers, Treasured Moments, and Blue House Bakery & Cafe.
Auditions for the next play, Males Order Brides or Big Harry Deal’s Scandalous Scheme by Billy St. John, will be at 6 p.m. Monday, December 16. Musical talent is appreciated but not required. The show dates will be February 14-16 and 21-23. Must be 18 years or older to audition. Donia Dunlap directs this play with assistance from Robert Reid. For questions about the auditions, call 575-706-3403.
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