Christmas comedy coming to Corson Playhouse
By:
Jamie Hult, Staff writer
Megan McDonald, Brian Schipper and Rachel Tinker star in the Mighty Corson Art Players’ holiday production of “Every Christmas Story Ever Told” this weekend at the Corson Playhouse. Jamie Hult/BV Journal
If you think the holidays can get zany, you ain’t seen nothing yet – not until you’ve witnessed the Mighty Corson Art Players’ latest show this weekend, that is.
“Every Christmas Story Ever Told” is a riotous romp through every fa-la-la flick, yuletide tune and red-and-green pop culture reference you’ve ever heard. It’s playing at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2:30 p.m. Sunday at the Corson Playhouse.
MCAP president Brian Schipper typically directs, but he’s taking the stage this time in the three-person cast, each of whom plays about 10 characters.
“We’re playing everybody in every Christmas story ever told,” explained Schipper, who co-stars with Megan McDonald and Rachel Tinker.
And they do it hilariously. “Every Christmas Story Ever Told” is about three actors attempting to put on a Christmas play. Schipper plays the lone traditionalist who just wants to do A Christmas Carol, but McDonald and Tinker hijack the show, turning the Dickens dialogue turns into a hysterical debate on whether anyone wants to see the same, worn-out story. Audience participation and comedic genius combine for a madcap mash-up of everything to It’s a Wonderful Life to Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Frosty the Snowman.
“There’s a lot of great chemistry on stage,” said Tinker, who’s been involved with community theatre since she was a kid. “It’s the kind of funny where you want to pee before you come funny.”
Directed by Casey Ring, “Every Christmas Story Ever Told” also tackles holiday traditions around the world – mostly rooted in fact – and offers plenty of physical comedy, clever wordplay and opportunities for the audience to get involved.
“Be prepared to break out the Christmas carols,” Tinker said.
The 90-minute production is suitable for all ages and runs three days only at the Corson Playhouse, located at 25993 482nd St. in Corson.
Tickets are $8 for MCAP members and $10 for general admission. Reserve seats by calling 605-582-2771, emailing boxoffice@mightycorsonap.com or visiting mightycorsonap.com/box office.
“Every Christmas Story Ever Told” was written by Michael Carleton, John K. Alvarez and James FitzGerald. Intermission includes homemade Christmas cookies baked and shipped by Schipper’s mom in Minneapolis.
