THE CHRISTMAS SCHOONER to Bring Powerful Holiday Tale to Repertory Theatre of New Britain, 12/13-22

Bristol Theatre Arts in collaboration with The Repertory Theatre of New Britain proudly announce The Christmas Schooner, a two act musical with a book by John Reeger and music and lyrics by Julie Shannon. The Christmas Schooner is based on the true story of the Rouse Simmons, a schooner whose captain transported fir trees from Michigan's Upper Peninsula to Chicago's German immigrants from the 1890's to 1912.

The Christmas Schooner tells the story of a Michigan shipping captain who braves the deadly winter weather to bring Christmas trees to homesick German American families in turn-of-the-century Chicago. His voyages become a yearly tradition despite his wife's misgivings - until a fateful voyage makes her realize the true importance of his mission.

Artistic Director Duane Campbell is thrilled to bring this critically acclaimed musical to The Repertory Theatre this holiday season. "This is a story that sticks with you long after you leave the theater, explains Campbell. "The Christmas Schooner truly captures the holiday spirit and reminds us all of the importance of tradition and family."

The Christmas Schooner opens on Friday, December 13 and runs through Sunday, December 22. Shows will be held at The Repertory Theatre of New Britain on 23 Norden Street in New Britain. Tickets are available online at www.bristoltheatrearts.org and www.nbrep.org.