WHO: East Valley Children's Theatre

WHAT: Production of "Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus"

WHEN: December 5-15, 2019; 7pm on Thursdays and Fridays, 4pm & 7pm on Saturdays, 2pm on Sundays.

WHERE: Mesa Arts Center - Nesbitt Elliott Playhouse, 1 E. Main St., Mesa

COST: $15 per person

INFO: East Valley Children's Theatre presents the original production of Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus Dec. 5-15 at the Mesa Arts Center. Written by EVCT's Artistic Director Karen Rolston, with music and lyrics by local composer Kathie McMahon, two compelling stories come together in this heartwarming play inspired by the famous editorial by Francis P. Church. On Christmas Eve, 1897, in New York City, eight-year-old Virginia is left pondering whether or not Santa really exists after a series of unhappy events. Meanwhile, a young newspaper editor also struggles against tough holiday times as he is faced with losing his job if he can't find his writer's voice by morning. Even though they don't know each other, the spirit of Christmas is about to bring these people together, creating in the process an unforgettable and cherished part of classic Christmas folklore.

The EVCT cast features 32 young people age 8-18 from all around the Valley, directed by Jere Van Patten.

Photo:

Aidan Perkins of Mesa as Frances

Moranda Smith of Mesa as Virginia

Jay Barber of Mesa as Mr. Mitchell

Photo Credit: Penrod Photography