RUMFORD — Rumford Association for the Advancement of the Performing Arts has a history of filling hearts with Christmas spirit each year with their annual holiday production that often leaves audiences humming or singing, and eager to begin the season with open hearts.

This Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 2 and 3, RAPAA will present “Who Will Give Christmas” at the Muskie Auditorium at Mountain Valley High School. Saturday’s performance is at 7 p.m. and Sunday’s is at 2 p.m.

This year’s show is written and produced by RAAPA veteran Jan Bordeau. The title comes from a song by Margo Guryan and will be sung by Trent Holman (age 12) and Marissa Lapointe (age 12) who play two homeless, orphaned children living on the streets. They still believe in miracles and make the best of what they have. They watch as Christmas is celebrated around them with lavish decorations, bright lights and lively music.

They eventually meet two other children who are not deprived, played by Grant Huston (age 9) and Kayleigh Smith (age 9). Two more children, played by Kianna Finnegan (age 9) and Lilith Butterfield (age 8), join the group as they play in the snow. The children encounter a homeless woman, played by April Huston, who teaches them about the Nativity and helps them understand the real meaning of Christmas in a unique way.

Long-time accompanist Gail Dorr takes over as musical director for this show. Dorr is adding new excitement and variety to the production. Music will include favorite songs from past shows such as “A Holly Jolly Christmas,” “Feliz Navidad” and “Silent Night” as well as some new additions such as “Silver and Gold,” “A Gift For Every Child” and “Hallelujah” (from the motion picture “Shrek.”).

Familiar characters will appear on stage to play with the children and interact with the audience, including the “Man in Red” doing his own “Santa Boogie.” This year we will be bringing back a fan favorite, Gail Parent, to read a meaningful and entertaining Christmas story for all.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and $5 for children 12 and under. Tickets are on sale now and can be obtained from any RAAPA chorus member or by purchasing at the door; the box office opens one hour before each performance.

Children from two different backgrounds discover the true meaning of Christmas in RAAPA’s annual holiday production. From left, are Trent Holman, Marissa Lapointe, Grant Huston, Kianna Finnegan, Carleigh Smith and Lilith Butterfield. 

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