The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, Ever

Tuesday morning kicked off its 21st annual production of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, directed by CFRT's newcomer Artistic Director, Tom Quaintance, who brings a fresh take on the original story adapted from the book.

With three casts of 180 local kids of all ages, this annual holiday classic will have you laughing as the antics unfold with the infamous Herdman crew as these unholy terrors take over the Christmas pageant.

In the fall, hundreds of kids auditioned for many of the roles in the production. If you have seen the play, it's no surprise that all the younger girls were hoping to be cast in the feisty role of Gladys Herdman, played by the animated Morgan Barker in the Green Cast. Another familiar face, Laura Griggs, terrifically played the spiteful role, for the third time, as Imogene Herdman.

In her 11th year participating in BCPE Laura is no stranger to the stage.

"The best part about being Imogene for me is that it's her character that the audience follows through this emotional journey," said Laura. "It's also the hardest part though. She is a challenging person to capture so I like working to reach her."

Talent and the love of theater run deep in the roots of the Griggs' family and you probably recognize Ken Griggs, in the role of Mr. Bradley for the Green Cast. Ken has been involved with BCPE around eight years now and numerous other CFRT productions.

"I love the twists that each of the directors - (Bo Thorp, Cassandra Vallery, Gina Stewart, Tom Quaintance) have worked in, but it's still the same lovable show that still gets to me. Every. Single. Time. (That's the way the kids say something firmly on FB)," said Griggs. "I have seen kids grow up in this show - and learn valuable lessons that they aren't necessarily taught anywhere else... Show up on time. Never miss an entrance. Know what you are going to say before you say
it. Don't "coach" another actor. Try not to fidget. Be flexible." 

"I have to laugh at how the theatre has affected my parenting style," Ken said. "If my kids are grounded for some offense, they aren't allowed to go out with their friends, no sleepovers, no babysitting jobs, no driving privileges -- but
they are NOT allowed to miss a performance or even a rehearsal -- too many other people depend on them being there."

Rosebud Harrison, another CFRT regular plays the role of Tracy and this is her eighth year in the production. Rose said her favorite role has been Gladys. "It's a lot different from last year," she said. " It has more of a theatrical professional feel this year."

Get your tickets now, this show is sure to sell out. See how a story can transform us all, even when told by a misfit group of kids in bedsheets. Each year the show has small nuances that give it a unique flavor, but this year, both the music and sound selections combined with the quick wit and humorous quips allowed the show to truly live up to its name.

Stoney Point and s attended the opening school performance by the Green Cast on Dec. 6.at 9:00 a.m. and clapped and cheered wildly from their seats throughout the production.

Tickets are still available for the student matinees from December 7-16
by contacting Kathy at 910-323-4234. For public performances contact Janis at 910-323-4233.