‘A Christmas Story’ arrives at Center Theatre

DOVER-FOXCROFT — The Center Theatre for the Performing Arts and the Slightly Off-Center Players debuted the production of “A Christmas Story” on Dec. 9. The beloved story follows the adventures (both imaginary and real) of Ralphie, a 9-year-old in the 1940s who desperately wants a BB gun for Christmas. Along the way the audience is nvited into his family to share their joys and misery as they make their way toward Christmas Day.
The play is based on the 1983 movie of the same name, which has become a traditional part of many families Christmas festivities. “Because the movie is so well known, the play contains all the ‘high points’ that people expect,” said David Murray, who directed the performance. “The lamppost, the leg lamp and all the rest are in the play. It’s wonderful and magical to see these holiday moments come to life on the Center Theatre stage.”
The play is a comedy with hilarious moments that will appeal to audiences of all ages and brings with it a message that Christmas is more than presents, it’s about family, friends and love. There are three more performances scheduled at the Center Theatre: Friday, Dec. 16 at 7 p.m., and Saturday, Dec. 17 at 2 and 7 p.m. Tickets are available at www.centertheatre.org, by calling the Center Theatre at 564-8943, or by stopping in at the theatre box office between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday or before any performance.
Henry Wanat, the stage manager for the production, encourages people to get their tickets early. “Because of the size of the set, we had to block off nearly 100 seats in the Theatre auditorium. Since there are less seats available, people really should get their tickets early. We don’t want anyone to miss this wonderful show.”
The Center Theatre is a non-profit performing arts venue dedicated to making the arts a part of life in the Maine Highlands and is celebrating its10th anniversary in 2016.