Local Firefighters make Guest Appearances for Local Theatre

Cameo appearances by North Aurora and Batavia firefighters will add to the giving spirit of Christmas this holiday season as they “join forces” with the Albright Theatre in their encore presentation of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. “There is a fireman character in the show with a few lines, so this year we thought it would be great fun to have local firefighters play the part” said Jeni Dees, Marketing Manager of the theatre. “We are also hoping this will bring more awareness to our Annual Holiday Food Drive.” Every patron who brings a non-perishable food item will receive $1 off the price of admission. “Last year we filled two car loads full of food, this year we want to fill four!” Dees stated optimistically.

The idea of casting actual firemen in the show came from Amy Setencich, who will also be appearing in the production as the very bossy Mrs. Armstrong. “I saw this as a unique opportunity to involve the community in our show, and it gives the children in the cast and audience a chance to meet a real fireman up close and personal” Setencich said, “It will also give these guys a chance to show off for the community-I think it will be a hoot!”

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever is based on the book by Barbara Robinson, about a group of kids named the Herdmans-the “worst kids around”. The Herdman kids bully their way into the lead roles in the annual Christmas pageant and end up learning about the true meaning of the season. The large cast of children and adults hales from all over the Fox Valley area, from South Elgin to North Aurora and everywhere in between.

If you would like to see the firemen (and cast) in action, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever runs December 9, 10,11,16,17 and 18. Friday and Saturday night shows start at 7pm and the Saturday and Sunday matinees begin at 2pm. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students and seniors. To receive $1 off of the admission price and help support the theater’s food drive efforts, please bring a non-perishable food item. Reservations are strongly recommended and can be made by calling 630-406-8838. The Albright Theatre is at 100 North Island Avenue in Batavia on the third floor of the Government Center. For more information visit our website at www.albrighttheatre.com.