DUBOIS – The Reitz Theater in DuBois will conclude its 2014 season with Jean Shepherd’s holiday classic, A Christmas Story Dec. 5-6 and Dec. 11-13 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 7 at 2 p.m.
As is the 1983 film of the same name, the play is based on the short stories and semi-fictional anecdotes of author and radio broadcaster Jean Shepherd. Ralphie Parker (Cole Nichelson) wants only one thing for Christmas: “a Red Ryder Carbine Action 200-shot Range Model Air Rifle with a compass and this thing which tells time right in the stock.”
His desire is refuted repeatedly with the same warning: “you’ll shoot your eye out”. All the trials and tribulations of Ralphie’s Mother (Valerie Kucinski) and “The Old Man” (Brian Hand) are included, and shared by the Adult Ralph (Drew Gordon).
Director Dave Clark call the piece one of those elite handful of Christmas shows that people look forward to. “It’s one I look forward to,” Clark says, “Something about the warm fuzzy feeling of bunny slippers, the cantankerous bemoaning of the Old Man, and, the olfactory imaginings of meatloaf and red cabbage that bring you home again and back to a time gone by.”
The production gives Clark the opportunity to work with adults and children. He adds, “While wisdom and experience allow adult actors, particularly veterans, to make adjustments and nuances to a live performance, youth certainly has its advantages. So many young actors excel beyond expectations bringing enthusiasm and sharp memories to the stage while reminding us what it’s like to be a kid. The combination makes for some very memorable entertainment.”
This year’s production will also include a toy drive to benefit Toys For Tots. Those attending are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy to the show. “There is nothing more important to community theater than the community it serves,” Clark says, “and the Reitz Theater wants to embrace our great community along with your help. ‘Tis the season to make a difference!”
Sponsored by McDonalds, tickets are $10 for adults, seniors and students are $8 and Kids 12 and under are $5. Tickets are available at Kohlhepp’s True Value Hardware, Rosie’s Book Shop, Ms. Cat’s Cache and S&T Bank on Liberty Boulevard, all located in DuBois. To reserve your tickets, call the Reitz Theater Box Office at 814- 375-4274 or go online at reitztheater.com.
