The 12th Annual “A Fabulous 50’s Christmas” Goes Back to a Simpler Time

2014-Towle-Fabulous-50s-ChristmasThe Towle Theater opened its doors in 2003 and Jeff Casey, Managing Director, had a large task in front of him. Try to find a holiday show that is unique and will appeal to audience members of all ages. After looking at all of the holiday shows that were already written, he decided to create his own show. Harkening back to Hammond’s hay day and a simpler time, “A Fabulous 50’s Christmas” was conceived. With a cast of five, a small orchestra combo and a few pieces of furniture, magic was born onstage that year. The show captures the spirit and joy of Christmas just as the Perry Como and Andy Williams TV Christmas specials did from years gone by.

Since that first production, the Towle Theater has produced “A Fabulous 50’s Christmas” annually to sold out houses. Jeff Casey states “I had no idea what the response would be the first year, but after the positive experience, I knew we should make it a annual event. We have had audience members who see the show every year. We welcome you to treat your entire family to Hammond’s very own Holiday Tradition and make it one of yours”.

The challenge each year is to reinvent the show. Even though the title remains the same, the show will change depending on the cast members. The Towle has featured as few as five cast members and as many as twelve ranging in ages from 7 to 85 years old. The cast also brings their personal and individual talents to the show. In the past, actors have tap danced, played the autoharp, saxophone, guitar, harp, the list could go on. Each year the song arrangements and commercials change to keep is fresh as well as the set and costumes.

This year the show stars Ryan Duncan (Chicago), Nic Eastlund (Chicago), Allyssa O’Donnell (Clarendon Hills), Theresa Renee (Chicago), Leslie Smith (Berwyn), Patrick Stapinski (Hammond), Desiree Staples (Chicago) and Will Wilhelm (Chicago). The Musical Director for “A Fabulous 50’s Christmas” is Elizabeth Tuazon (Tinley Park, IL).

“A Fabulous 50’s Christmas” runs three weekends, December 5-7, 12-14, 19-21. Show times are Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 2pm & 8pm and Sundays at 2pm. Tickets are only $17 and must be paid for in advance are non-refundable. Group rates are available. There is no late seating. Please arrive no later than 15 minutes prior to curtain.

The Towle Theater is located in beautiful downtown Hammond at 5205 Hohman Avenue. Parking is available just off Fayette Street and only steps away from our alley entrance and across Hohman Avenue from the front entrance. For tickets or more information, please call 219-937-8780 or visit www.towletheater.org.