Elliana Naegelen, a ninth grader from Dresser, plays Mary in the production. Since her first show with Festival Theatre in 2002, Elliana has made countless memories and friendships onstage. “all the artists have taught me about how much fun acting really is,” shared Elliana, “with the cheerful atmosphere and encouraging actors and directors, I have such an enjoyable time on stage!”
The reach of this show expands beyond the youth directly involved in the production of “A Laura Ingalls Wilder Christmas.” This year, Festival Theatre’s Student Matinee program will reach approximately 1,000 local youth from Taylors Falls, Grantsburg, Amery, North Branch and St. Croix Falls. This program enables local students to see live professional theatre with their classmates for only $5. This year Festival Theatre is bringing the show directly to Amery and North Branch schools to expand its accessibility. Elizabeth Albers, Festival’s Arts Education Coordinator is thrilled to bring the show on the road, “It is so exciting to be able to share our work with the community and our local students!”
Tickets for “A Laura Ingalls Wilder Christmas” are already selling fast, and with limited capacity in the Franklin Square Black Box, patrons are encouraged to make their reservations as soon as possible. Tickets are $26 for adults and $13.50 for students (ages 5-25) and can be purchased at FestivalTheatre.org, emailing festivaltheatreboxoffice@gmail.com or by calling the box office at 715-483-3387.