Palestine Community Theatre to Present ‘White Christmas: The Musical’
By Sarah Naron
Messenger Reporter
PALESTINE – While the chances of an actual ‘White Christmas’ occurring in East Texas are slim, the classic song and movie are still a beloved aspect of the Christmas season for many individuals. The Palestine Community Theatre is hoping to deepen that affection through its presentation of the Irving Berlin musical “White Christmas” at the historic Texas Theatre in downtown Palestine with the first show slated for Friday, Dec. 15 and the final performance to be held Sunday, Dec. 17.
“Opening night reception is at 6:30 Friday night, and the play starts at 7:30 Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday,” explained Mary Alice Largent, a Palestine resident who is sponsoring the event.
“We have an all-star cast, because we have such fabulous talent,” Largent said of the actors participating in the production. “It’s a beautiful musical. It’s really sweet.”
“Having come home from World War II, Bob and Phil team up to help their former commanding officer, General Waverly,” explained a press release obtained by The Messenger from The Texas Theatre. “Along the way, they meet performing sisters, Betty and Judy. Romantic mix-ups ensue.”
The cost of admission is $15 for adults and $10 for students ranging in age from four to 18. Tickets are available at Blake Furniture, Discount Pools, the Palestine Area Chamber of Commerce and the Palestine Visitor Center. Purchases may also be made online at www.texastheater.com or at the door before each performance.
Attendees of the opening night reception will enjoy complimentary cheese and wine.
The show is sponsored by Palestine resident and theater aficionado Mary Alice Largent.
“Theater has always been a love of mine – musicals, in particular,” Largent said when asked what inspired her decision to sponsor the event. “I saw all possible as a kid at our Roxy theater in my hometown of Langdon, ND. I would sing and dance all the way home.”
Largent has also enjoyed live performances in Chicago, Houston, Milkwaukee and “everywhere in between.
“I was so impressed with the local talent we have in our area and how they have restored the old Texas Theatre that I wanted to be a part of it by sponsoring the Christmas production,” Largent explained. “So, I have done so for years, and I think this is my seventh.”
Largent encourages all fellow lovers of theater and musicals to make plans to see one of the three shows.
“It’s a great way to get into the Christmas spirit,” she said.
Further information may be obtained by calling 903-723-9595. The Texas Theatre is located at 213 W. Crawford St. in downtown Palestine.
Sarah Naron may be reached via email at [email protected].
