Lakewood Theatre Company Presents THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER, 12/16-23

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, a family story about the true meaning of Christmas, will open at the Lakewood Theatre Company on Wednesday, December 16 at 7:30 PM. This year marks the 19th time this holiday production has been staged by Lakewood Theatre Company. The show, directed by Steve Knox, is an adaptation of the popular short story written by Barbara Robinson and originally published by McCall's Magazine.

The Herdmans were absolutely the worst kids in the history of the world. They lied and stole and smoked cigars (even the girls) and talked rough and hit little kids and talked back to their teachers. So it surprised just about everybody when they decided to take part in the town's Christmas Pageant. The Herdman kids had never heard of the Christmas story, but the way they interpreted it, you'd think the story of Jesus came right out of the F.B.I. files. (They called the Wise Men a bunch of dirty spies). It was a Christmas pageant to remember. An American classic ... one of the best Christmas stories ever told.

Playwright Barbara Robinson has written several books for children including Across From Indian Shore and Trace Through the Forest. Her stories have appeared in well-known magazines and a short version of this play appeared in McCall's Magazine under the title, "The Christmas Pageant."

Performances run from December 16-23 at 7:30 PM. There will also be matinee performances at 2:00 PM on Saturday Dec. 19 and Sunday Dec. 20. After the opening night performance on December 16th, there will be a hot cocoa and cookie reception.

Tickets are $12.00 for adults and $10.00 for students and senior citizens. Group discounts are available for parties of 10 or more. For reservations call 503-635-3901 or order online at www.lakewood-center.org. The theatre is located at Lakewood Center for the Arts, 368 S. State Street in Lake Oswego.