The Palm Canyon Theatre Company is hoping you will “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas,” as the holiday season rolls in and the cast of Meet Me in St. Louis sings the song made famous by the 1944 movie and the Broadway musical of the same name.
In 1990 the Broadway rendition was nominated for Tony Awards for Best Musical; Best Book, Hugh Wheeler; Best Original Score, Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane; and Best Choreography.
Meet Me In St. Louis shares the story of the Smith family as they each find their way living in St. Louis, Missouri. The patriarch, played by J. Steger Thompson, and matriarch, played by Suzie Wourms, are raising their five children in American traditions. Their love and loyalties are tested when Mr. Smith announces he is moving the family to New York. Family members include Lizzie Schmelling as Esther; Kate Antonov as Rose; Sadie Paiz as Tootie; Natalia Fernandez as Agnes; and Abel Rodriguez as Lon. The story reaches its climax on Christmas Eve, and ends with a picturesque finale at the 1904 World’s Fair. Memorable songs include “The Boy Next Door,” “A Raving Beauty,” “The Trolley Song,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “Whenever I’m with You,” and “A Day in New York.”
Meet Me in St. Louis is directed by Dr. William “Bill” Layne. Musical direction is by Steven Smith, who will lead a live trio during the production. The show is choreographed by Andrea Bellato with costume designs by Derik Shopinski. Sets and lighting designs are by J.W. Layne, co-artistic director of PCT.
Meet Me in St. Louis is part of the Palm Canyon Theatre’s 20th Anniversary Season. The musical opens Friday, December 2, and runs three weekends through Sunday, December 18. Regular show times are 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 7 p.m. on Thursdays. Sunday matinees start at 2 p.m. Tickets are $32-$36. Student tickets are $15, with valid ID; student tickets must be purchased at the Box Office.
For tickets, call the Palm Canyon Theatre Box Office at 760-323-5123 or order online: PalmCanyonTheatre.org. The Palm Canyon Theatre is located at 538 North Palm Canyon Drive, at the corner of Alejo Road and Palm Canyon Drive. Box Office hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information call 760-323-5123.
