The final performances of the Encore Productions season will begin this weekend as "A Gift to Remember" takes the stage at The Elbert Theatre.
"On Christmas Eve, during a snowstorm, a group of strangers are on a train to Boston from Bangor, Maine, where the airport had been shut down due to the weather. Many of the passengers hope to make connections to various destinations across the [United States] and are not in a very festive mood when their transportation is delayed," according to the show synopsis. "Understandably disappointed and dispirited, they try to make the best of things with little success at first. Eventually, however, they begin to bond, despite their circumstances. As the former strangers become collective friends, through patience, understanding and humor, they realize the memory of this night will be a gift to remember."
The show is directed by veteran directors and actors Ken Little and Patrick Bell.
Little said the show is dedicated to Bell, who was also built the set.
The ensemble cast includes David Bennett as Sam Larsen, Ann Marie Brennan as Cathy Norris, Marie Glenn as Madeline/Choir, Kayla Hiott as Kelly Berry, Philip Hiott as Matthew (Matt) McHugh, Lyla Kate Johnson as Kate Jones, Michael Blackston as Nick Berry, Bob Larson as Clayton Kemper, Madison Wall as Amy/Choir, Joanne Phillips as Elise Jones, Rose Scoggins as Jean Owen/Pam, Jake Triplett as Len Dawber and Julie Williams as Louise Larsen.
"We've got a good smattering of veterans and rookies," Little said. "I'm proud of the way they've hung in together, because there's a lot of times we could've fallen apart. Everybody has been positive, and I guess it really means they're an exemplar of the play."
His favorite part of directing the show has been watching the actors develop their characters.
"It's just amazing how people can switch to being someone they're not and make it real," Little said. "I think that's the most exciting thing about theater."
Little said the show has a G-rating and is perfect for the entire family.
"Following Black Friday, it's a good way to ground yourself again as to why we celebrate Christmas," Little said as to why audiences should come see the show.
Performances will be held Friday, Dec. 1 through Sunday, Dec. 3 and Friday, Dec. 8 through Sunday, Dec. 10. Performances will be held at 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays.
Tickets are $11 in advance, $9 for students/groups and $16 at the door.
Call the Elbert Theatre Office at 706-213-3109 or email tking@cityofelberton.net to reserve tickets or for more information. Tickets are also available online at bigtickets.com/events/elbert-theatre/.
The Elbert Theatre is located at 100 S. Oliver St.
Little said he would also like to thank the theater's sponsors for the show – NAPA Auto Parts and Karew Sports and Imprinting.