My daughter and I made our way downtown to see the final dress rehearsal performance of Stage One Family Theatre’s production of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever and were immediately drawn into the holiday spirit! There are many holiday shows, outings, and events that are geared for the entire family this season throughout Louisville: you will want to be sure to make seeing this show one of them. It really will tug at your heart strings and remind you of just what Christmas is all about. The simplicity of the season, good will, and glad tidings to all are common themes that are portrayed throughout the show.
The actors and actresses who play the parts of the Herdmans are what really drew me into the plot line and onto the stage with them. I felt like I was part of the story: any storyteller’s dream come true. My daughter and I laughed our way through the entire performance. These young actors and actresses are so talented and played their parts so well. Most everyone is familiar with the story, which was written by Barbara Robinson in 1972. The Herdman kids are most undeniably “the worst kids in the entire history of the world.” They yell, bully, slap, and threaten all the kids they come in contact with. But when the Christmas pageant begins, something changes in all of them and we see who they really are, and what kinds of gifts they bestow upon others. We especially see that change in Imogene, who plays the part of Mary, the mother of Jesus, in the Christmas play.
I really enjoyed the dialogue, the set, scenery, and cast of Stage One’s The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. It is directed by Lucas W. Adams and showcases a gifted cast and production staff. Shows are performed in the Bomhard Theater at Kentucky Center for the Arts. The website recommends it for an audience of ages 8 and up.
Public performances are on these upcoming Saturdays, December 7, 14 and 21 at 2 pm and 5 pm. Ticket information can be found here. Don’t miss the 20th anniversary of this classic!
Photo by Erin Nevitt
