Over 40 of the area’s most popular and talented performers will gather at Southside Theatre Guild from December 11-14 to present the world premiere of an original holiday show, “The Collins Family Christmas” destined to be a holiday favorite.
The production is written and directed by Chris Shellnutt with musical direction by Ed Richardson. Shellnutt most recently directed “The Nerd” at Southside Theatre Guild and last year’s special presentation of “Smoke on the Mountain.”
Richardson most recently directed “Always Patsy Cline”and appeared in “Smoke on the Mountain” at Southside.
The two wanted to get the “Smoke on the Mountain” group together again and decided an original Christmas show was the ideal vehicle for a reunion. All of the performers from “Smoke on the Mountain” including Julie Campbell, Jeff Cooper, Tina Cooper, Blaine Clotfelter, Joely Layton, James Wojnowski and Gloria Wright will be participating with a number of Southside favorites joining in the fun! Patty Richardson and Susan Gillespie most recently starred in “Always Patsy Cline.” Other popular entertainers returning to the Southside stage include Nikki Clotfelter, Kelley Davenport, Charles Gillespie, Tonya Gregg, Marian Johnson, Roger Johnson, Natalie Kolhaas, Jill Lucas, LouAnne LaFortune Norman and Jonny May. Rounding out the cast are 12 children and teenagers and dancers from Southern Crescent Academy of Dance. The beautiful choreography is by Shari Gee and Valerie Shellnutt.
The show revolves around the world famous Collins Family and the filming of their annual Christmas television special. It’s 1972 and America’s favorite television family celebrates Christmas with their traditional gathering of family and friends. Beautiful holiday music, fun and laughter bring back memories of special times and provides a magical experience for all. The blend of backstage chaos, nostalgic television charm and cherished holiday tunes make for a delightful evening of entertainment.
All profits from this production benefit the Southside Theatre Guild Sound and Lighting Fund.
The productions runs December 11- 14 at Southside Theatre Guild, 20 W. Campbellton Street, Fairburn, GA. Thursday, Friday and Saturday are at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday a matinee at 2:30 p.m. and a Sunday evening performance at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 for Adults and $15 for children and are available at www.STGChristmas.com or by calling 770-683-4612.
