“A Christmas Wish” will return to The Legacy Theater on at 7 p.m.Saturday, Dec. 13,
and at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14.
Using a blend of local performers and locally connected professional talent, this musical
tells the story of a family’s redemption through a Christmas miracle with traditional
carols and music in the style of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.
Featured professional instrumentalists include Cole Carson on drums; Todd Boyer, Brett
Powell and Carl Thomas on guitar; and Janet Carlisle and Jared Murphy on keyboard.
Professional soloists include Andy Avery as the father, Dan Sheeran as the angel; solos
and a trio by Chenille Sheeran, Carol Brower and Christine Murphy; Danny Lasswell as
the bum; and Ellie Whitaker as the daughter.
The show also features an adult choir and a children's choir made up of local singers,
both directed by Linda Tobias.
Rob Carson returns to his role as the narrator. The production is directed by Amy
Graham.
Almost 20 years ago, Carson was key in helping with the revival of the stately
auditorium that had served Carthage College and Robert Morris College.
After standing empty and neglected for years, something needed to be done.
“Back in 2006, the old campus had become a real eyesore, and it was a community
priority to improve the first impression visitors got entering town from the new four-lane
highway to the east,” recalled Carson.
“To raise awareness of the potential the campus had, a very dedicated group of
volunteers decided to clean and showcase the Bryant Auditorium by performing a
Christmas show.”
Over the years, that show became a symbol of renewal for the auditorium. When it was
rebranded as The Legacy Theater in 2016, “A Christmas Wish” returned as their
featured Christmas show. Now it is the cap of the theater’s 10 season.
The ticket prices are the same as in 2016 – $20 for adults, and $10 for children age 12
and under. Carson Motors is show sponsor of the Saturday performance of “A
Christmas Wish.”
“I am so excited to be a part of ‘A Christmas Wish 2025’!” said Carson. “What a great
way to celebrate the very successful 10 year anniversary of The Legacy Theater with
the show that started it all.”
For information or to order tickets, go to the Legacy Theater, open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
weekdays, 217-357-9479; visit The Legacy Theater page on Facebook; or go to
www.thelegacytheater.com.