Reviewed by: Sharron Swain
Holiday shows at Virginia Samford Theatre are here—get your tickets now
Reading time: 4 minutes
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The party never stops at Virginia Samford Theatre (VST) and we’ve got proof. With a tree lighting ceremony and holiday productions, the lineup for VST’s first ever “Holidays on Highland Avenue” is the perfect way for families, friends and theatre enthusiasts to ring in the season.
Keep reading for details on the holiday shows, plus a word from a few actors.
Kick off “Holidays on Highland Avenue” with a tree lighting ceremony
Kicking off the season the best way they know how, VST is inviting Birmingham neighborhoods to their community tree lighting ceremony.
You can get in the holiday spirit, meet the cast members of the “Holidays on Highland Avenue” shows and enjoy free refreshments.
- When: Wednesday, November 29 | 5:30PM
- Where: Virginia Samford Theatre, 1116 26th St S, Birmingham, AL 35205
- FREE to attend!
“The holidays are a special time of year, and VST is proud to be a part of the Birmingham community’s celebrations by bringing classic shows to the stage and becoming a place to celebrate the season.
We have had a great season so far, and we’re excited to invite many more families to start new holiday traditions here at VST with us during Holidays on Highland Avenue.”
Philip Mann, Executive Director, Virginia Samford Theatre
Keep scrolling for the “Holidays on Highland Avenue” show lineup.
Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus
VST STARS (Students Take A Role at the Samford) present the heartwarming play inspired by the classic Christmas tale of Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus.
On Christmas Eve, 1897, eight-year-old Virginia is left pondering whether or not Santa really exists after a series of unhappy events. Meanwhile, a young newspaper editor also struggles against tough holiday times as he is faced with losing his job. Even though they don’t know each other, the spirit of Christmas is about to bring these people together.
- What: Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus, VST STARS
- When: December 7-16
- Tickets: Adults $28 | Students $23
BONUS: Take your picture with Santa after the 2:30PM matinee on December 9 + 16. Pictures are free for ticket holders!
The Man Who Came to Dinner
Catch The Man Who Came to Dinner and enjoy a Christmastime, mid-century comedy classic directed by VST Artist in Residence David McMahon.
An opinionated and arrogant radio personality injures himself slipping on ice and becomes an unexpected houseguest for a prominent area family, the Stanleys.
We spoke to Jan Hunter, who plays Daisy Stanley, and a few of her costars about bringing this show to life.
“My favorite part is working with these wonderful actors and the director David McMahon. I think any audience would be surprised at how much time these shows take, and David has been very gracious and kind with the time we spend [in rehearsal].”
Jan Hunter, playing Daisy Stanley in The Man Who Came to Dinner
Playing Jan’s opposite—Daisy’s husband Ernest Stanley—Barry Austin enjoys the uniqueness of the show.
“This show is written about a guy who is pretty disagreeable, and I think that’s pretty unique. Hopefully you will find something to fall in love with about him.”
Barry Austin, playing Ernest Stanley in The Man Who Came to Dinner
- What: The Man Who Came to Dinner
- When: December 8-17
- Tickets: Adults $45 | Students $23
Each cast member echoed Jan and Barry’s thoughts, saying that this show is a fast-paced, comical classic that you do not want to miss.
It’s a Wonderful Life: Live!
This holiday classic already took the stage in November, but It’s a Wonderful Life: Live! will be back for a few days right before Christmas.
Be part of the studio audience as Ravenswood Radio Theatre takes you back in time to the 1944 broadcast of “It’s a Wonderful Life.”
With a stellar cast of six, a vintage musical underscore and live Foley sound effects that bring the entire town of Bedford Falls to life, you will experience this classic story like never before.
- What: It’s a Wonderful Life: Live!
- When: December 21-24
- Tickets: $25
Support local talent + get your tickets for these “Holidays on Highland Avenue” shows today!
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