PLAY DATES Thalian Hall Wilmington
One of the oldest theatres in the United States, Thalian Hall has been in almost continuous use since its opening in 1858. The theatre has been under the management of the Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts, Inc. since 1963. Last year there were over 250 shows, events, and films for a total of 495 performances, attracting more than 85,000 people. Read more on Page 27 of this issue. Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” Dec. 12-22, various times; $28. The Theatre Exchange’s adaptation of the timeless story of Christmas redemption transports us from London to a Depression-era “Hooverville.” Actor, historian and Thalian Hall Center for Performing Arts executive director, Tony Rivenbark, will once again bring Ebenezer Scrooge to life. Merry Country Christmas, Dec. 19, 3 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.; $15-75. Songs of fun, faith and hope are presented by musicians and singers steeped in the traditions of American country music. From the fun of Old Saint Nick to the profoundly moving “Oh Come All Ye Faithful,” they cover the gamut in this captivating production. New Year’s Eve Gala, Dec. 31, starting at 7 p.m.; $165 per person. An evening of dinner, drinks, dessert and the Broadway classic, “La Cage Aux Folles.” After the show, ring in 2020 with a live DJ, dancing, karaoke, and when the clock strikes 12, a champagne toast to celebrate! “La Cage Aux Folles,” Dec. 31, Jan. 2-5, Jan. 9-12, Jan. 16-18, showtimes vary; $25-33. Based on the 1973 French play of the same name by Jean Poiret, this musical focuses on a gay couple: Georges, the manager of a Saint-Tropez nightclub featuring drag entertainment, and Albin, his romantic partner and star attraction. The adventures ensue when Georges’s son, Jean-Michel, brings his fiancée’s ultra-conservative parents to meet them. Malpass Brothers, Jan. 24, 7:30 p.m.; $15-50. The Malpass Brothers’ music is steeped in the legacy of Johnny Cash, Marty Robbins, the Louvin Brothers, Hank Williams, Sr. and others. You can count on classic country, brand new tunes, traditional gospel and some good-natured ribbing between the two. Beanstalk! The Musical,” Jan. 26, 3 p.m.; $10. A new twist on the classic children’s fairy tale, “Jack and the Beanstalk,” this original musical follows Jack as he learns lessons in friendship and responsibility when an errant Giant destroys the public portions of his town and steals his multi-talented, tap-dancing cow Bossy. Skippy and the Comedy Warriors, Feb. 15, 7:30 p.m.; $15-50. Marc Price, “Skippy” from the 1980s TV series “Family Ties,” joins real-life heroes, wounded combat veterans John Kashnow and Bobby Henline, for a night of comedy.
SE PICK
Blueberry Drop Historic Train Depot,
DEC
31 TUE
Last year, the town of Burgaw and the N.C. Blueberry Festival began a new tradition to ring in the New Year — they dropped a giant lighted blueberry at 7 p.m. on Dec. 31, which is midnight Greenwich Mean Time. This year, they’ll do it again, with the second annual Blueberry Drop planned for New Year’s Eve at the Historic Train Depot in downtown Burgaw. Last year, an estimated 1,000 people turned out to watch the blueberry drop, and organizers expect an even bigger event this year. Festivities will begin at 5 p.m. More at www.ncblueberryfestival.com/blueberry-drop/.
don’t drop the ball this new year’s eve A Gatsby New Year Starting at 9 p.m., Terrace Room, 104 S. Center St., Goldsboro
Celebrate the new Roaring Twenties with an open bar, including free beer and wine, signature cocktails, hand-rolled cigars, free caricature artist, live music and much more! Tickets at www.gatsbygoldsboro.com.
Mount Olive Pickle Drop
The New Year’s Eve Pickle descends the flagpole at the stroke of 7 p.m., which also happens to be midnight Greenwich Mean Time. Great family fun with live music and free refreshments. Because of a major construction project going on at the Corner of Cucumber & Vine – where the drop is usually held – the Pickle Drop will be held at the University of Mount Olive’s Kornegay Arena.
Island of Lights
This free family-friendly event will feature a DJ and dancing with refreshments and party favors available for purchase. There will also be a Beach Ball Drop at midnight, followed by a fireworks display. More info at www.pleasureislandoflights.com/.
New Year’s Eve Block Party & Bear Drop
The town of New Bern is hosting a block party at the corner of Craven and Pollock downtown. The party will include a Kids Zone, food trucks, contests, live entertainment and a Bear Drop at midnight. More at www.newbernnc.gov/departments/special_events/. Pride of Kinston’s NYE Masquerade Starts at 8 p.m., Masks are encouraged and some will be available on-site at this party to benefit downtown Kinston revitalization. Business dress or black tie required. Live music by Trainwreck. Tickets are $40 in advance or $50 at the door. Tickets available at www.eventbrite.com. *All events are on Tuesday, Dec. 31.
10 | WWW.SENCMAGAZINE.WORDPRESS.COM | WINTER 2020
