Make spirits bright this winter by joining Aurora Theatre for its annual holly jolly tradition Christmas Canteen 2016! Striking up festive tunes November 17 –December 23, Gwinnett’s longest running theatrical extravaganza will usher in the sounds of the season with Canteen veterans Brandon O’Dell, Jen MacQueen, Diany Rodriguez and Lyndsay Ricketson Brown, alongside powerhouse newcomers Christian Magby and Cecil Washington Jr. Complete with laugh-out-loud comedy and sparkling musical numbers, this winter wonderland revue promises a delightful experience for all!
“For the past 21 years, we have produced Christmas Canteen with the intention of giving the community an unmatched tradition that encompasses something for every generation. This variety show has great moments of physical comedy, breathtaking costumes and most of all, spectacular musical numbers ranging from sentimental holiday favorites, fun pop songs, high energy dance numbers and patriotic salutes, just to name a few,” said Anthony Rodriguez, Aurora Theatre Co-Founder and Producing Artistic Director. “One of my favorite parts of the show is seeing the audience’s reaction. Each year, the content is unique with new material, so we can’t wait to see what our patrons think of the surprises we have in store for 2016!”
Co-directed by Anthony Rodriguez and Jen MacQueen, Christmas Canteen will come to life via the talented design team of Julie Allardice Ray (Set), Daniel Pope (Sound), Ryan Bradburn (Props), Mary Parker (Lights), Alan Yeong and Suzanne Holtkamp (Costumes), and Jen MacQueen (Choreography). With Musical Direction by Aurora Co-Founder Ann-Carol Pence (Keyboard), she will lead Canteen band members Mark Biering (Percussion), Greg Armijo (Bass) and Jim Stallings (Guitar) in bringing audiences the sounds of the season through live music.
Adding to the yuletide joy is Aurora’s annual Festival of Trees, supporting the United States Marine Corps Toys for Tots drive and Gwinnett’s local food banks. More than 25 trees decorated by local businesses will illuminate the theater lobby for visitors to enjoy. All guests are encouraged to cast a vote for their favorite tree by placing a new, unwrapped toy and a non-perishable food item underneath it. All of the gifts will be donated to the United States Marine Corps Toys for Tots and the food items will be delivered to area food banks.
Recommended for all ages, Christmas Canteen 2016 will be presented November 17 –December 23. Tickets range from $30-$65 with discount matinees on Wednesday, December 7, 14, and 21 at 10 a.m. and Friday, December 23 at 10 a.m., starting at $20. Tickets can be purchased online at tickets.auroratheatre.com or by calling the box office at 678-226-6222.
Regular show times are as follows:
- Tuesday –Saturday: 8 p.m.
- Saturday and Sunday: 2:30 p.m.
*There will be no performances on Wednesday, November 23 or Thursday, November 24 in honor of Thanksgiving.
