The Bonnie Kate Community Theater is embracing the festive spirit this holiday season with a series of engaging events, including film screenings and live performances. According to Renee Christian, the theater’s Artistic Director, the venue plays a vital role in bringing the community together during this special time of year. “Bonnie Kate is really community oriented, and Christmas is the penultimate time of the year when people come together,” she stated.
The historic theater has evolved over the years, changing ownership and undergoing renovations. Christian expressed hope that the theater will continue to hold a cherished place in the hearts of both long-time patrons and new visitors. “We know that there are people in our community who have wonderful memories of the Bonnie Kate from when they were growing up,” she noted. “With our new renovations, we want to breathe some new life back into the old gal and be part of people’s memories moving forward.”
Film Screenings and Live Music
This season, the theater is showcasing a lineup of beloved holiday films. Scheduled screenings include:
– **November 22 at 20:00** — *The Nightmare Before Christmas*
– **November 28 at 20:00** — *The Polar Express*
– **November 29 at 20:00** — *National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation*
– **December 5 at 20:00** — *Elf*
– **December 6 at 20:00** — *The Muppet Christmas Carol*
Tickets for each screening are priced at $8, and concession stands will offer a special combo deal on popcorn, candy, and drinks.
In addition to film showings, the theater will host a live performance by the Tri-Cities Jazz Orchestra on **December 21 at 19:30**. Tickets for this 18-piece orchestra are available for $15. The evening will feature an audience sing-along and karaoke, starting at 19:00 and continuing through intermission. Concessions will be open, and beer will be available for purchase during the event.
Theatrical Performances and Future Events
The theater will also stage a production of *The Best Christmas Pageant Ever*, a comedic adaptation of Barbara Robinson’s classic story. Directed by Rae Renfro, performances are scheduled for:
– **December 12 at 19:30**
– **December 13 at 13:30** (an early show due to the Christmas Parade)
– **December 14 at 14:30**
– **December 18-20 at 19:30**
– **December 21 at 14:30**
Santa will make appearances at the matinee performances on December 13, 14, and 21, offering children the chance for memorable photo opportunities. General admission for this production is $15, while children aged 12 and under can attend for $12.
Looking ahead, auditions for the spring musical comedy *Once Upon a Mattress* will take place on **January 3 and 4 at 14:00** and **January 5 at 19:00**, with performances set for March 2020.
Tickets for all events can be purchased at the door or online at tickets.bonniekatetheater.org. The theater has implemented a new seating system, allowing guests to select and reserve their seats in advance.
The Bonnie Kate Community Theater holds monthly meetings on the last Tuesday of each month at 19:00, welcoming public participation. Volunteers are also invited to assist with various tasks, including concession stands and general maintenance. For more updates, visit bonniekatetheater.org or follow the theater on Facebook.
