Bluegrass Children’s Theatre will be performing “A Christmas Carol” Dec. 5-7 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 7 at 2 p.m. The sold-out shows are being produced by the theatre company Grae Greer created a little over a year ago to develop imaginative educational experiences for local youth.
The version BCT is presenting is more modern, according to director Carolyn Greer, who is also Grae’s mother. Grae believes that it’s a story about self reflection, community support and love for oneself and family that audience members will see on stage.
“We all know the story of ‘A Christmas Carol,’ but when you bring it to a contemporary time period, there are elements that are altered to make it more relatable,” Carolyn said.
Besides this mother-daughter team, another shines in the cast. Paige Yuke, who Grae said is “no stranger to BCT” auditioned, and her mother Heidi also auditioned and was cast, the first time BCT has included adults in their productions.
“They’ve been such a fun mother and daughter team to have in the show,” Grae said. “This is the first production with adults, and it’s been a pleasure watching families rally around their kids onstage and off.”
This is the first production Carolyn has directed under her daughter’s company, and Carolyn said that it has been a neat experience directing Grae again.
“Not only am I directing for her company, but I’m directing her,” Carolyn said. “It’s been exciting to be able to support Bluegrass Children’s Theatre…What parent isn’t proud of their children’s accomplishments?”
Grae said that the two work well together.
“She’s incredibly collaborative, which makes this process all the easier,” Grae said. “She’s my director goals, so it’s cool getting to see her in action up and close again.”
Both Greers credit others with sharing their love of theatre which led them on this career path, and both hope they can share that love with others.
I want people to feel encouraged and supported regardless of where their passions take them,” Grae said. “As long as my actors and technicians feel seen, heard, and loved…then I’ve done my job.”
BCT’s “A Christmas Carol” can be seen at Century Christian Church, 1301 Tamarack Road. Tickets are $6 per person and can be purchased at http://bluegrassct.booktix.com. More information about Bluegrass Children’s Theatre can be found on their Facebook page.
