By Rick Morwick
Virtually all plays have a unique set of staging challenges, and Main Street Productions, Inc.’s presentation of “A Little Christmas Spirit” is no exception.
But director Kat Watson prefers to leave it at that.
“I can’t answer this one much or it will give away a bit of a surprise,” she said. “But the play takes place in both 1990 and 1950 at the same time. Now, figure that one out.”
Featuring a main cast predominantly of Hamilton County residents, “A Little Christmas Spirit” begins a nine-show run Nov. 30 at Westfield Playhouse, 1836 W. Ind. 32, in Westfield. The final performance is Dec. 16.
Written by prolific playwright Pat Cook, “A Little Christmas Spirit” tells the story of J.D. Morris, who has been searching desperately for a special gift for his grandson. After wandering into Nick’s Emporium and finding what he’s been looking for, he receives a stunning surprise when he returns to pay for the item: The store is dark and vacant.
“This place ain’t been in business for over 20 years,” a policeman tells J.D., setting in motion a chain of humorous and enchanting events in a Christmas fantasy tale.
Watson, a Noblesville resident who is directing the play for the first time, enjoys the story’s uplifting holiday theme.
“(I like) the message that there is Christmas magic all around you if you just take the time to believe and look,” she said. “Keep your heart open to the surprises that may cross your path, and always drink your hot cocoa with marshmallows.”
Main cast members from Hamilton County are Thom Johnson (Noblesville) as Nick; Nate Piggush (Fishers) as Jerry Morse; Cindy Duncan (Carmel) as adult Mona; Natalie Weber (Fishers) as young Mona; Lisa Warner (Westfield) as Angelina; Marci Marcus (Carmel) as Sandra; Dawn Menard (Westfield) as Kim; Todd Clevenger (Cicero) as Niven; Ava Menard (Westfield) as Mary; and Olivia Menard (Westfield) as Jenny.
Kevin Caraher of Indianapolis plays J.D. Morris.
Watson, who has acted, directed and worked backstage at Westfield Playhouse since 2004, has a wish list of takeaways for the audience.
“That we should all slow down and live in the moment,” she said. “Don’t let life pass you by. Appreciate the people that come and go in our lives. Spend quality time with family and friends, and Christmas magic does exist.”
For more or for tickets, visit westfieldplayhouse.org.
