Grand Rapids is experiencing a bit of a theatrical renaissance at the moment. No, I do not mean that over-coiffed men are racing through the streets chasing after scantily clad women while holding a spicy piece of meat (unless you are on Ionia over the weekend).
Rather, I am talking about how much talent is being produced on our area stages, from the intimate and funny shows at Dog Story Theatre, to the established and ground–breaking pieces of education and real world experience at Spectrum Theatre’s Actor’s Theatre.
As a way to honor that relationship, Actors’ Theatre's Ellie Frances and Circle Theatre’s Rob Karel are back again for another spectacular Holiday show with a whole new twist.
Instead of the cabaret format of last year's nearly sold out performance, the due has re-imagined this act as a nod to the classic holiday Christmas program that your parents probably enjoyed. And this time around, as Frances and Karel cavort around the stage in dance numbers that harken to Fred and Ginger, they will be joined on stage with a cast of “drop ins," including special guests (and Actors' alums) Craig Hammerlind, Neil Trevisan, Matt Tepper, and Lynne Tepper.
Another big plus of this expanded production is the inclusion of a chorus made up of GRCC music students past and present.
“This is especially important for us to include this chorus,” says Frances. “As an actor from Actors’ Theatre, I know firsthand how important that relationship is to all of us. Many of the Spectrum students who have worked side by side with us on programming have gone on to great things.”
In addition to the chorus, the GRCC Madrigal Singers will be caroling in the lobby before the performance. Just a reminder, this is a general admission show so do not be late. Immediately after the presentation, a holiday reception with all the classic old-fashioned cookies and eggnog will be served compliments of the Actors’ Theatre board of directors.
Admission: $14 adults / $8 Student or Senior / $5 GRCC students
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