For many, the holiday season elicits warm thoughts of togetherness and cheer. But did you know that there was a time in our nation that “the most wonderful time of year,” was not widely celebrated? Historians note that although there were minor celebrations in various sects of the country, many United States citizens didn’t recognize the holiday at all prior to the mid-nineteenth century.
On Friday, December 9, 2016 Freetown Village will take viewers back in time to experience the tale of one woman’s journey to bring the magic of Christmas to life.
Freetown Village Celebrates Christmas: A Family Tradition will open at the IUPUI Campus Center located at 420 University Blvd., Indianapolis, IN. Tickets are available now for both the matinee (10:00 AM) and evening (7:00 PM) performances online at www.freetownvillage.eventbrite.com.
The play, set in the fictional town of Freetown Village in the year 1870, follows Freetown resident Sarah Elizabeth as she attempts to spearhead a Christmas celebration. Sarah Elizabeth’s idea to bring a modern twist to the traditionally somber occasion splits her community down the middle as some see such a celebration as both frivolous and sacrilegious.
During the show, audience members will have the opportunity to interact with the characters by helping Sarah Elizabeth and her supporters in their plan to begin a new tradition. Attendees of the evening show will have the added bonus of being able to participate in a cake walk.
The cake walk, or chalk-line walk, has its origins in slavery as slaves would hold dance competitions where the best dancing couple would win a large cake as a prize. Participants in the Freetown Village cake walk will be competing for the chance to win one of several baked goods and treats from local bakeries and restaurants. Proceeds from the cake walk will be used to fund Freetown’s youth programs.
“Although it takes place nearly 150 years ago, the messages in this play resonate with what we’re experiencing in society today,” said Ophelia Wellington Executive Director of Freetown Village. “So many people are torn on what this special time really means. As you watch all the atrocities happening in our world and in our nation, it is clear that now is as good a time as any to share a little joy and goodwill toward others. It is our hope that this play will inspire everyone to celebrate the richness of community, the spirit of giving, and the preservation of family traditions. It will be a great evening for all.”
Freetown Village Celebrates Christmas: A Family Tradition
When:
Friday December 9, 2016
Matinee: 10 a.m. Performance
Evening: 7:00 p.m. Performance and Cake Walk
Where:
IUPUI Campus Center Theater (lower level), 420 University Boulevard, Indianapolis, IN
(Parking validation for Vermont Street Garage)
Tickets:
Matinee: $7.00 (groups of 10 or more can make reservations at http://bit.ly/2g1zozc
Evening: $12.00 (In Advance – until December 2)
At the door: $15.00
Cake Walk: $10.00 (evening show only)
About Freetown Village: Freetown Village is a living history museum with the mission to educate the public about African American lives, arts, and culture in Indiana through exhibits, special programs and events. Programs include interactive theater, music, storytelling, hands-on crafts or heritage workshops or other performance based programs. Programs tour statewide and are appropriate for various ages.
