The holidays are quickly coming to a close and budgets are getting tighter bracing for 2009. Instead of staring at a TV or wasting money on gifts that break a month after Christmas, take your family or out of town guests to the local theatre. There are still many great, classic plays available to entertain the whole family. It’ll be money well spent!
“The Wizard of Oz”
Indianapolis Civic Theatre
3200 Cold Spring Road
Indianapolis, IN 46222
(317) 923-4597
Faithful to MGM’s popular movie, this all-new production of Civic’s signature holiday extravaganza brings the film to life in a wild and wonderful musical journey to that magical place where dreams come true. Dorothy, a wistful little Kansas farm girl gets caught up in a tornado and whisked off, far over the rainbow, to the marvelous Land of Oz. With the help of the Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion, she battles the Wicked Witch of the West while trying to reach the great and powerful Wizard in hopes that he can help her get back home. Featuring a large children’s chorus and an array of special effects, including a full-blown tornado, this is a musical favorite for all ages.
Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol”
Indiana Repertory Theatre
140 W. Washington St.
Indianapolis, IN 46204
(317) 635-5252
Join Ebenezer Scrooge for the 13th consecutive year of celebrating this endearing holiday classic, the IRT’s gift to Central Indiana families. Friends and family alike will delight in this sparkling story of love and redemption brought about by Jacob Marley, three ghosts of Christmas and a little boy named Tiny Tim. Make it a holiday tradition you’ll never forget: shopping, dinner and “A Christmas Carol” — all topped off by a carriage ride to see the lights!
“This Wonderful Life”
Indiana Repertory Theatre
140 W. Washington St.
Indianapolis, IN 46204
(317) 635-5252
Frank Capra’s beloved film becomes a winning one-man show in this highly theatrical treatment of everyone’s favorite holiday movie classic. It’s Christmas Eve: a distraught George Bailey stands on the bridge; sure he has failed his family and community. Clarence, an angel-in-waiting, helps George see how vital a role he’s played in the world and restores George to his family while earning his own wings. One actor plays more than 30 roles and adds insight about the film’s iconic place in our lives. Anyone who’s ever loved this movie won’t want to miss this charming theatrical tour de force!
