GRT readies holiday, new year schedule

Graham Regional Theatre (GRT) is bustling with activity as it prepares to kick off its holiday season. From community- driven events like Open Mic and Trivia Nights to a December performance of A Christmas Carol, GRT is more than just a theater—it’s a cultural hub for Young County.

This year marks GRT’s seventh run of ”A Christmas Carol,” a custom adaptation crafted for GRT by then-managing directors Christian and Stephanie Sanders in 2017. The show has become a holiday staple, with audiences returning year after year to see what creative tweaks the cast and crew made to the production, said Kay Berru, GRT board of trustees treasurer and business manager.

Directed by Katie Huitt, with Charles Huitt overseeing lighting and technical elements, this year’s version promises fresh updates while staying true to the Dickens classic. Ms. Berru, who has contributed to nearly every production since joining the board 22 years ago, will handle choreography, vocals, and stage management.

Costume designer Elizabeth Kirkland also is hard at work preparing the Victorian costumes that bring the tale to life, extensively remodeling some pieces to make them as timeless as the story itself. The production runs the first and second weekends of December.

Aside from its seasonal productions, GRT also hosts lively community events, like Open Mic and Trivia Nights. Open Mic nights are held on Saturdays (the November date to be announced), and Ms. Berru describes it as a “very casual” evening where community members of all ages take the stage. From karaoke to live performances of popular songs, it’s a come-as-you-are event where everyone is encouraged to sing, play an instrument, or simply sit back and enjoy. Admission costs $5.

Trivia Night, held on a Monday or Tuesday each month, draws crowds of anywhere from 14 to 40 people who come ready for competitive fun. Teams of up to six tackle 50 questions, with each winning team member receiving tickets to any GRT production. “It’s a fun, lively evening, and very competitive,” Ms. Berru said.

Looking ahead, GRT has a Valentine’s Day weekend melodrama in the works, a major musical set for June, and a fall production in September. October’s “Talkin’ Tombstones”— Grove Cemetery where actors embody historical figures— drew a crowd of nearly 70 for its recent shows.

GRT revived its GRTeens and GRT Kids after-school theater programs. The programs, run by volunteers, provide elementary through high school students hands-on experience in makeup, costuming, set-building and other theatrical skills.

For information on upcoming shows, ticket purchases, and the latest events, go to the Graham Regional Theatre Facebook page.