“Christmastime Origins” – Four musical radio plays written by Julio Martinez from his book “The Eight Plays of Christmas” adapted by the Group Rep and directed by Kathleen Delaney.
Christmas always brings us fun and enjoyable theater. This holiday season is no exception. Julio Martinez has written eight wonderful plays about Christmas, and we are fortunate to have four of them at The Upstairs at the Group Rep.
“ONE HORSE OPEN SLEIGH” is the story of “Jingle Bells,” created in Savannah, Georgia in 1857. “CHRISTMAS IN TINSELTOWN” is the story of “White Christmas,” written by Irving Berlin for the Paramount movie, “HOLIDAY INN.” “White Christmas” won the academy award in 1943, and is the best selling single of all time. “ALL IS CALM, ALL IS BRIGHT” tells us the story of Silent Night which was first performed in St. Nicholas Church in Austria in 1818. And last, but not least, “KEEPING CHRISTMAS WELL,” shares the making of “A Christmas Carol” in 1843 in Camden Town, London, England. Each story gives us song and how the songs came to be.
The joy of such wonderful story telling by Julio Martinez is brought to life through a radio show scenario with glorious song by an amazing cast and keyboard by Paul Cady, sound effects reminiscent of a live radio show by on stage sound effects, and expert direction by Kathleen Delaney. Every one of the cast make this show a delight. Its fun, joyful, full of energy, and sure to put you in the Christmas spirit. As usual, we have a great set, great costumes, fantastic props, and Christmas carols galore.
“Christmastime Origins” is set to become a Christmas classic and sure to make your holiday merry and bright. We deserve this awesome theater experience to end 2021. Have the merriest, safest, and glorious holiday with those you love. Onward, upward, outward and forward to 2022. Can you believe it??? 2022??? Where have the years gone!!!
Enjoy!!!!!!!!!
Cast:
Michael Gabiano, Sheena Georges, Kelley Goode, Doug Haverty, Matthew Hoffman, James Lemire, Kayley Stallings, Mark Stancato, Cathy D. Tomlin, Diane Vincent, Leslie Young, and Paul Cady on Keyboard.
Team:
Director: Kathleen Delaney
Produced for the Group Rep by: Stevie Stern
Stage Manager: Cathy D. Tomlin
Set Design: Emmett/Delaney
Lighting Design: John Lucewich
Foley Design: Dan O’Connell
Costumes: Cheryl Crosland
Assistant to Director: Kristin Stancato
Publicity: Nora Feldman
Sound Consultant: Sammy Strittmatter
Photography: Doug Engalla
Properties by: Leslie Young
Technical Operator: John Ledley
Where:
Upstairs at the Group Rep
Lonny Chapman Theatre
10900 Burbank Boulevard
NoHo Arts District, CA 91601
The Upstairs at the Group Rep is not handicapped accessible.
When:
12/04/2021 through 01/02/2022
Saturdays at 4:00 pm and Sundays at 7:00 pm
After Shows Talkbacks with the writer, cast and production team,
Saturdays 12/11 and 12/18, followed by book signing with Julio Martinez of “THE EIGHT PLAYS OF CHRISTMAS”
For Tickets & Information:
http://www.thegrouprep.com or 818-763-5990
General Admission $20.00; Seniors & Students with ID $17:00
Running Time approximately 90 minutes
Covid Policy:
All patrons must be vaccinated, show ID and proof of full vaccination required upon entry, and wear a mask while inside the theater complex. Entire Cast and Crew are fully vaccinated.
For more Information about the show:
*KPFK Arts in Review Radio Show http://archiver.kpfk.org/index.php?shokey=artsinreview
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