Holiday Celebrations Around the World December 13, 2008

Holiday Celebrations Around the World is written and directed by popular Bay Area actor and educator Paula Wujek, who also participates as a cast member in the show. The production includes seasonal stories and songs from around the world with appearances by traditional characters as well as some new ones, too.

In the show, seven adults and twelve children depict a variety of traditions including the Winter Solstice and stories from Iceland. They portray the legends of La Befana of Italy, who brings presents to children on the eve of Epiphany (when the Wise Men found the baby, Jesus) and Santa Lucia of Sweden, a saint whose life is celebrated at the Festival of Lights in December. The cast takes a contemporary side trip to the imaginary Isle of Mystic Toys and visits the North Pole with Santa Claus and the elves. Pleasanton's own vocal trio, The Pleasantones, and The Grinch make appearances as well.

Special guest, the Punjabi Heritage Society, performs Visakhi, the traditional dance of the Indian harvest season.

Adult: $14, $18 and $20 and Child: $8, $12 and $16.

Official Website: http://www.pleasantoncivicarts.org