The Fisher Theatre Closes I'LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS 12/12

The Fisher Theatre in association with Hemphill Entertainment, under the direction of writer/director TJ Hemphill, present the uplifting holiday musical stage play I'll Be Home For Christmas, running December 9- 12, 2010, at the Fisher Theatre, 3011 West Grand Blvd. in Detroit. The press opening is Thursday, December 9, 2010 at 8pm.

Like most families, the Bolden clan has its share of issues: the youngest son David, is returning home from prison and is trying to get acclimated to his new life as a preacher and find a job in a tough economy. Older brother Josh is constantly harassed by his wife Maxine to take over the church as his father makes plans to retire. His father, Rev. Bolden is torn as to which son he should pass his pulpit to while his wife Ethel is concerned about what his decision will mean for their two sons. Then there's the hilariously funny and sometimes bizarre, Uncle Charlie. He is the soul of the family and see's everything that is happening and in his own comical way wants to help the family navigate through this difficult time and celebrate the Christmas season.

"TJ Hemphill, one of Detroit's award-winning playwrights, has never shied from difficult topics, huge themes or deeply felt emotional responses. His work is brave and unstinting, compassionate and heartfelt," says journalist Greg Dunmore. "In such challenging times, we are so focused on the poor economy and all of the negative things that we hear about everyday in the media, we need to find strength and hope in ourselves. I can't think of a timelier holiday offering than I'll Be Home For Christmas to instill a sense of family togetherness and spiritual uplift," he adds.

The play, written and directed by Hemphill, features Grammy nominee and Tony Award winner Melba Moore (Purlie, Les Miserables) and actor Clifton Davis (TV's "Amen;" "Kingdom Come," "Any Given Sunday"). The cast also includes R&B sensation Cherrelle, Elder Goldwire McClendon (BET's "Sunday Best"), gospel singer Kim Stratton and reviving her role as the wicked and manipulative Maxine, Billboard chart-topping gospel artist, Lisa Page Brooks.

"This show has everything-- it will make you laugh, and cry but most importantly, unlike most urban Theater Productions, it is really something that the entire family can enjoy, says writer/director TJ Hemphill. This is a multi-generational show and there is something in it for everyone," adds Hemphill.

As a special gift to the community that has supported TJ Hemphill's productions for so many years, Thursday, December 9th, opening night seats are only $25 and the production is also asking ticket buyers to bring a new pair of gloves to donate to local homeless shelters this Christmas. The 2010 production of I'll Be Home for Christmas is sponsored in part by Commonwealth Community Development Academy, Comcast, CW Morris/JW Henry Funeral Home and Bob Maxey Ford.

Tickets for Thursday, December 9th are $25 and tickets for Friday and Sunday's show are $32.50 and Saturday's tickets are $35. All shows begin at 8pm except Sunday which starts at 7pm. Tickets can be purchased at the Fisher Theatre Box Office or online at www.broadwayindetroit.com or by calling Ticketmaster charge by phone at 800-982-2787. Group tickets can be purchased by calling 313-516-9377.

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