Come see this first-rate cast perform A Laura Ingalls Wilder Christmas at the Ritz Theatre!
Seated at in the front row are the Wilder sisters. Emma Barber plays the youngest, Carrie, with verve and humor - she connects with the audience, and we can't help but smile when she takes the conversation. Emma sister's, Allyssa Barber, has the central role of Laura Wilder, and sometimes narrates the action - this very talented young actress (who was outstanding last year in The Addams Family as Wednesday Addams) pulls us into the show with an empathic performance that makes us really care about her and her family. We feel her experiences, worries, and concerns, and we share in her dreams and hopes. Hannah Hitt plays Mary Ingalls - Hannah was a faithful participant in the children's theatre, The Flying Dragon. I have seen her perform and grow in talent for many years, and this is her finest performance yet.
In the back row, Christopher Kuhbander plays Johnny Steadman, the slightly obnoxious boy next door - he is another Flying Dragon alum who keeps getting better and better. Cole Hendley plays Pa Ingalls - he successfully reflects the quiet strength and dignity of his character, and it is easy to see why his daughters look up to him. Cole was in The Addams Family - I was very impressed with his professionalism and dedication, and he was a great help to me, the Ancestors, and many others. Playing Ma Ingalls is Julianna Lacefield, a good friend and frequent co-star of mine, and she continues to increase her outstanding resume with a stellar performance, brilliantly communicating the sadness of losing an infant child (something tragically common in that time), in both her verbal and non-verbal actions and reactions. Stevie Howell effectively plays elderly neighbor Mrs. Starr, a woman who eases her loneliness by befriending the family, particularly Laura.
A great play has to have all elements hitting on all cylinders. The cast and crew of this excellent play achieve that.
Please making attending WACT's Christmas play a part of your seasonal traditions. It's a relaxing and entertaining way to begin Christmas!
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