Christmas Memory a show for the whole family

The regional debut of A Christmas Memory at the Theatre at the Center provides a fun way for your family to create its own Christmas memories. Originally published in Mademoiselle Magazine in December, 1956 according to Wikipedia, A Christmas Memory is based upon Truman Capote’s own childhood. And, with all the quirky characters in the musical, it must have been quite a childhood.

The story centers around Buddy, a 14-year-old boy who lives with his elderly relatives in Alabama. His parents are briefly mentioned in a way that makes the audience think they simply didn’t have time for him. Luckily for Buddy, his Alabama family has room in their home and their hearts for him.

His closest companion, Sook, is a child-like aunt who fills his days with adventures. From the moment she opens the windows and declares the crisp air to be “fruit cake weather” you know the fun is about to begin. Buddy and Sook encounter several town characters from the mailman to HaHa Jones, a possibly murderous and mysterious person.

The young girl next door, Nell Harper, is the only person close to Buddy’s age. When Buddy says her name, the first thing I thought about was Truman Capote’s close friendship with Harper Lee (who wrote To Kill a Mockingbird).  Their relationship was so strong that it’s mentioned prominently on his Wikipedia page.

A Christmas Memory is a charming show that your entire family will enjoy. When we attended we saw grandparents with their grandchildren and a group of high school students. The 2 and 1/2 hour play will keep everyone engaged until the final, poignant moment.

The Theatre at the Center is conveniently located in Munster IN. It’s about 35 minutes of expressway driving from door to door. A Christmas Memory runs through December 14. For information about the show, or to purchase tickets, visit www.theatreatthecenter.com.

Disclosure: I attended the media opening. My words and opinions are my own.