‘A Joyful Holiday’ returns this year
David Jerome
Correspondent
Idyllwild Actors Theater is performing a return of its Christmas show. A tradition since 2006, after a two-year hiatus the performers are returning with “A Joyful Holiday” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 11 at the Rustic Theatre.
The show is a collection of holiday tales, from the heartwarming to the hilarious. President and Founder Suzanne Avalon said the show entertains “with laughter and cheer, reading stories that move the audience into a warm, fuzzy holiday spirit,” as well as skewering “the many foibles associated with the season.” She promises the audience will be visited by a “rebellious reindeer, tacky Christmas trees, a secret Santa in the barnyard and more.”
Authors include John Updike, David Sedaris, Harper Lee and others. The actors need no introduction to residents, and some have reps in the wider world. Returning this year are Michèle Marsh, Jacob Teel, Jeri Greene and Avalon. New to the program are Brian Parnell, Goldie Hoffman and Robert W. Norman. Hoffman and Norman were last seen in “The Birds” in October.
Avalon adds, “We will be dedicating the show to our beloved friend, Doug Austin. He was a large part of our success when he became our sponsor in 2003. He often greeted our guests as they arrived and kept us above water as we forged ahead with unique and sometimes controversial theater. Mr. Austin was our hero. A portion of our proceeds will go to Idyllwild Help Center to bring some joy for others at this holiday time.”
Tickets are $20 online at idyllwildactorstheatre.com or at the door.
