Last weekend to see Miss Merry Christmas Alabama!

Several years ago, Renaissance Theatre produced a musical comedy, Pageant, directed by the late Lee Deal. It dealt with the absurdity of pageants and included judges chosen from the audience to pick a winner. The talent, specified in the script, made demands on the actors to perform those character talents with some very interesting results.

When Bob Baker, Artistic Director at Renaissance Theatre, penned the script for Miss Merry Christmas Alabama, he did use the format of that well-known show, but that is where the similarities end. When Baker decided to mix lovely "ladies", over-the-top drag clothes, and re-vamped versions of familiar songs, he ended up inventing an outlandish 1950’s Copa Cabana atmosphere. Throw hosting a beauty pageant at Christmas into the mix and hilarity ensues.

Baker decided to cast talented people who were capable of choosing and performing their own talents! Having watched a few rehearsals, there are some amazing moments on the stage. Baker says without hesitation, “that my cast and supporting technical crew has been 100% invested in making this show a success; in spite of day jobs, other obligations, and demands found in all of our everyday lives. The artistic and collective creative effort from the directorial, dance and costuming areas especially, have each been superlative! And, yes it’s been fun; and yes, it’s been a lot of hard work”.

Opening November 25 (the day after Thanksgiving), the show runs through December 11. Tickets are $18 and may be purchased by visiting Showclix.com or by calling the theatre. A Dinner Theatre is scheduled for December 3 at 6:00pm with the show to follow at 7:30pm. Tickets for the Dinner Theatre and Show are $36.00 per person. Call (256) 536-3117 to make your reservations.

Outrageous costumes and outrageous “ladies“! Who will win? Come prepared to laugh!