Celebrate the holiday season by attending the Imaginary Theatre Company’s production of “The Christmas Skates” Dec. 18 at the West Plains Civic Center theater.
The presentation is being sponsored by the Missouri State University-West Plains University/Community Programs (U/CP) Department and the West Plains Council on the Arts. Financial assistance for this project has been provided by the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.
“It’s our pleasure to partner with the West Plains Council on the Arts to bring this wonderful performance opportunity to the community,” U/CP Director Brenda Polyard said.
The 50-minute play explores holiday traditions; themes of friendship, appreciation and giving; and accepting differences in each other.
Holiday themes highlighted
The true spirit of the holiday season shines brightly in this musical adaptation of Mary Griggs Van Voorhis’s short story, “The Boy with the Box.”
It’s nearly Christmas, and Tom Reynolds is excited to show off his brand-new skates – that is, until someone shows up with a newer, better pair.
Meanwhile, across town, Harvey McGinnis is thrilled with the meager gifts he’s managed to gather for his little sisters.
Inspired by Harvey’s kindness and spirit, Tom hatches a plan to give his new friend a holiday surprise to remember.
Special daytime performances set for students
Two daytime performances will be offered free of charge for area students. A 7 p.m. evening performance is slated for the community, organizers said. Email info@westplainsarts.org or call Sally Robinson at 417-255-7966 to reserve seats for students at the daytime performances.
Organizers note the evening performance will be in a sensory-friendly format. “If you know a child who lives with sensory sensitivity, this is the perfect way to introduce the child to the theater,” said Paula Speraneo, president of the arts council.
Tickets are $5 for adults for the evening performance. Students with a BearPass ID and children ages 13 and under will be admitted free.
For more information, call 417-255-7966 or email info@westplainsarts.org.