DM Playhouse to Stage THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER, 11/14-29

The Kate Goldman Children's Theatre at the Des Moines Community Playhouse presents "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever," Nov. 14-29. Tickets may be purchased online at dmplayhouse.com, by phone at 515-277-6261, or at the Playhouse ticket office, 831 42nd St. "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever" is sponsored by Iowa Realty.

The Herdmans are the worst kids in the history of the world. They lie, steal and smoke cigars (even the girls). When they hear the local church's pastor gives away candy, they show up on the day the Christmas pageant parts are being assigned and bully their way into all the lead parts. In the end, it's the Herdman children who remind the congregation of things they forgot and the whole church learns the true meaning of Christmas.

The Playhouse cast is directed by Kathy Pingel with music direction by Christopher W.F. Powell. The cast of 25 includes Ella Darsee, Caitlyn Dean, Paige Fahrenkrug, Colton Ferree, Cael Fitch, Anne Arthur Frett, Sarah Frett, Avi Gedler, Natalie M. Grote, Noah Hackbart, Caroline Holmes, Sierra Howland, Ethan Kellar, Melissa Kellar, Regan Kloppe, Jaxon Koehler, Forrest LaPrade, Mark Pullen, Lily Spahr, Robin Heldt Spahr, Cecelia Talley, Cade Tomlinson, Rodney Tomlinson, Nicholas Wharff, and Lisa Wiggins.

The Playhouse is Iowa's oldest and largest producing theatre. Located at the 42nd Street exit of I-235, the theatre has presented a full season of shows since 1919 and also offers a wide variety of educational experiences including classes for ages 4 to adult, theatre trips to New York, and volunteer opportunities onstage and backstage.

For more information about the Playhouse and "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever," contact the Playhouse ticket office at 515-277-6261. "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever" Performances: Nov. 14-29, 2014 at 7:00 PM Friday and 1:00 PM & 4:00 PM Saturday-Sunday. School Matinees Nov. 24-25. Ticket prices start at $13. To purchase tickets, go to dmplayhouse.com or call 515-277-6261. Des Moines Community Playhouse Ticket Office, 831 42nd St., Des Moines, IA 50312.