PR2003 Dec U1

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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Wendy Jones 205-391-2310

“A CHRISTMAS STORY” COMES ALIVE ON STAGE

(Tuscaloosa) – Theatre Tuscaloosa brings the classic movie “A Christmas Story” to life on the stage of the Bean-Brown Theatre on the campus of Shelton State Community College with performances December 11 through December 21.

“A Christmas Story,” based on humorist Jean Shepherd’s memoir of growing up in the Midwest of the 1940’s follows the quest of Ralphie Parker to get a genuine Red Rider BB Gun for Christmas. Pleading his case before his mother, his teacher and even Santa Claus himself, the consistent response is “You’ll shoot your eye out.”

Shepherd’s tale inspired the 1983 movie of the same name. All the elements from the beloved motion picture are here, including the temperamental exploding furnace, the Little Orphan Annie decoder pin, Ralphie’s fantasy scenarios and the famous “Leg Lamp.”

Cast for the production includes Tom Stedham, David Richardson, Sara-Margaret Coker, David Wilson, Will Bomar, Jamison Sanford, Lincoln Eason, Becky Sheehan, Kailie Melchior, Tyler Richardson and Jean Scott. “A Christmas Story” is directed by Michael Carr, with scenic design by Christopher Dunham, costume design by Jeanette Waterman, lighting design by Erin Hisey and Susie Johnson as stage manager.

Johnson said, “I can’t wait to see an audience response to this show; I think they’ll have the time of their lives. It’s really going to be a great Christmas event.”

Opening night for “A Christmas Story” is Thursday, December 11. Opening night audiences are invited to join the cast for a party immediately following the show in the “Patron’s Room.” In addition, on opening weekend the “Patron’s Room” will be open prior to performances. “We invite everyone to join us for drinks and hors d’oeuvres prior to the show and sample the rewards of being a Theatre Tuscaloosa supporter,” said Michael Carr, artistic director.

“A Christmas Story” will be presented December 11, 12 and 13 at 7:30 P.M., December 14 and 17 at 2:00 P.M., December 19 and 20 at 7:30 P.M. and Sunday, December 21 at 2:00 P.M.

Tickets for the production are $15 for adults and $12 for seniors and students. Shelton State students are admitted free with their I.D. cards. For additional “A Christmas Story” ticket information, including group sales or to purchase advance tickets by phone, call the Theatre Tuscaloosa box office at 205-391-2277.

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