By Zach Dunkin
Following last year’s successful world premiere, Actors Theatre of Indiana’s “Completely Christmas Cabaret” will return with some new songs and a new location for this year’s holiday season. Starring ATI’s own Don Farrell and New York City’s MaryJayne Waddell, the show moves from The Warehouse in Carmel to the Studio Theater at the Center for the Performing Arts, Dec. 8-10.
“The response for last year’s debut was overwhelmingly good,” said Farrell, who cofounded ATI in 2005 with Judy Fitzgerald and Cynthia Collins. “Both were sold-out performances and the feedback was enthusiastically positive. Now, we are looking forward to transforming our home at The Studio Theater into a new cabaret space.”
Performing in a cabaret-like setting and backed by a musical trio, the two long-time friends will present an evening of recognizable holiday songs and stories, plus other not-so-familiar tales and tunes. They will share personal stories and remembrances of Christmas that were unique to them but other stories the audience can relate to. They also will talk about the history of Christmas and how some of its traditions originated, “pulling back from the commercialism of Christmas and get back to what Christmas is all about,” Farrell said.
“The audience really liked the fun, new songs we introduced to them to as well as the familiars songs we included, plus the personal stories and nostalgia,” said Farrell, adding there will be some new tunes added. “We really want the audience to feel like they are invited to a Christmas party MaryJayne and I are throwing with the ‘home’ quality we create.”
Farrell said four-top cabaret tables will be added on the floor of the theater, where there will be VIP opportunities for people to sit. The regular thrust configuration of the audience seating will remain.
Advance tickets are $35 for adults and $20 for students and are available visiting atistage.org or calling 317-843-3800. VIP stage side seating is available for $40 per person.
