Richland country is enveloped in an aura of magic, and the sights and sounds of Christmas are everywhere. Santa Claus came to town and downtown Mansfield is now aglow with lights and decorations. Storefronts have decked their windows with boughs of holly and it’s all beginning to look a lot like Christmas.
There are few things that set the tone and kindle the fires of the Christmas spirit than live entertainment. There are still a couple of entertainment venues you won’t want to miss this coming weekend. As a matter of fact, why not double your seasonal pleasure and attend both!
Guaranteed to banish your inner Scrooge, Mansfield Playhouse is hosting Ebenezer and his family on December 14,15,16, 2012. This time-honored classic showcases some of the great talent that lives in this area. The Playhouse has the distinction of being the second oldest continuously producing theatre company in the state and when you attend one of their productions, it’s easy to see why they’ve achieved this longevity. Originally, The Playhouse housed The First Alliance Church. It’s been converted and updated over the years becoming the cozy, nostalgic, theatre it is today. It’s always been recognized as the perfect venue for a gathering of thespians and other artists to showcase their work. Louis Bromfield, the renowned local author, wrote a script and availed himself of the talent cultivated right here with this thriving community theatre group. This production of A Christmas Carol is no exception, and you’ll find yourself leaving the performance wanting to God Bless everyone too, especially the Mansfield Playhouse. Performance times and ticket information are listed on the Playhouse website at http://www.mansfieldplayhouse.com
A time honored tradition for many in the area is a magical night at the historic Renaissance Theatre for their annual
Holiday Pops. The Mansfield Symphony and Chorus, in perfect unison, herald in the holidays with this seasonal event. The performance this year promises to be especially exciting with the advent of two new musical directors. Holding the baton and directing the spectacular Mansfield Symphony, is Thomas Hong. The Mansfield Chorus, in perfect harmony, add their voices, under the direction of Dirk Eachus The Mansfield Symphony and Chorus has some of the most talented musicians and vocalists in the state . Expect to hear dynamic seasonal favorites as well as inspirational secular sounds. This performance will move you to tears, joy, and laughter, all in the same night. The North Pole pipeline has it of good authority that Santa will be making an appearance before the show and at intermission. This beautiful immersion into the sonority of the season is a family-oriented event and just might become a tradition with your own. Holiday Pops takes place on Saturday, December 15th at 8:00 p.m. You can purchase tickets at http://www.mansfieldtickets.com or take your chances at the door, the night of performance.
So, sit back, settle into your theatre seat, and let these live performances enhance your 2012 holiday experience.