King Island Christmas

Submitted by Ronald K. Inouye
Phone: 474-5354
12/09/04

An Alaskan children’s book has been transformed into an enchanting family musical which will be performed two weekends in the UAF Salisbury Theatre. Based upon Juneau author Jean Roger’s book "King Island Christmas," librettist Deborah Brevort and NY composer David Friedman have produced an enchanting 80 minute production about King Island and how the villagers work together to surmount the difficulties of bad weather as the "North Star" supply ship brings supplies and their favorite priest, Father Carroll, for Christmas.

This joint production of "Theatre UAF" and the "Fairbanks Light Opera Theatre" unites children and adult choruses with an orchestra, all directed by Theresa Reed. UAF lighting designer Kade Mendelowitz and his theatre crew transform the stage into King Island complete with special effects, and Judith Kreith’s movement give the production a unique feel.

Performances are Fridays (Dec. 10 and 17) at 7p.m., and weekend matinees at 2p.m. (Dec. 11, 12, 18, 19) Tickets (adult $10; children $5) are available at the FLOT ticket outlets or the Theatre UAF box office.