WALTON - Actors, singers and performers are polishing their acts for the Delaware River Stage Company’s 2023 Christmas variety show, to debut at the Walton Theatre Dec. 1 at 7:30 p.m.
This year’s show, titled “The Greatest Gift,” features perennial favorites such as the Walton Townsend School Second- and Third-Grade Select Chorus - a community favorite; performances by The Conklin Family and Joe Hafele as well as performances by new members Lena Storrer and Tracy Wood and family, among others. The annual performance would not be possible, she said, without the talent, flexibility and creativity of Jody Jamieson, Hafele Hammond said. “She is the backbone of the company.”
Audience members can expect the usual shenanigans from raucous trio “Nadine, Harriet and Claire,” played by Jeanne Slawson and co-producers Paula O’Brien and Molly Hafele Hammond. “Those ladies are getting themselves into a whole world of trouble this year,” Hafele Hammond said. “They will be just as surprised as the audience is.” She expects that part of the show will be different for each performance, she said.
The two-act performance includes a selection of both secular and religious themes and songs - with the usual comedy audiences have become accustomed to, Hafele Hammond said. There will be some emotionally touching moments in this year’s show, she said, as well as things that everyone can relate too.
This year, she said, the show highlights and honors the history of Christmas songs. There are vintage and newer songs, Hafele Hammond said, and “different spins on old songs, keeping with tradition.” The show is significant to her personally, she said, because the show takes a look at where the Christmas songs were written, and why. “I didn’t know, and I’m sure most people don’t know, they don’t all come from a happy place,” Hafele Hammond said.
The approximate 40-member cast is extremely talented, Hafele Hammond said; and she’s thrilled for this year’s performance.
This year’s theme, O’Brien said, “Is a reminder to be grateful. Try to focus on blessings.”
The two hour variety show is the best entertainment in town at this time of the year, O’Brien said; and cheaper than a movie. Tickets for the performance at $6. Show times are Friday and Saturday, Dec. 1 and 2 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 3 at 2 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at the Walton Music House, 208 Prospect Ave., Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. If the show is not sold out, prior to opening night, tickets will be available at the box office. The box office will open at 5:30 p.m. but seating is not permitted until a half hour before show time.
