Photo Flash: A CHRISTMAS MEMORY Celebrates Opening Night at Theatre at the Center

Over the course of their 2014 season, Theatre at the Center, a major equity player on the Chicago theater scene, has introduced audiences to never-before-seen productions on Chicagoland stages. To round out their current season, they will be making no exception and present the regional debut of the musical adaptation of Truman Capote's A CHRISTMAS MEMORY, through December 14, with a press opening last night, Sunday, November 16 at 1040 Ridge Road, Munster. Directed by William Pullinsi, A CHRISTMAS MEMORY is a labor of love for its Broadway veteran team, written by Duane Poole, with music by Larry Grossman and lyrics by Carol Hall. Based on Capote's touching memoir of his own childhood, this wistful Southern Christmas tale is a tender portrait of a rare friendship across generations with a joyous score that will bring love and light to everyone's hearts this holiday season. Sure to delight the entire family, Capote's masterpiece springs to life in this heartfelt musical treat.

The aroma of pecan pie and the flicker of candles in the window banish the December chill of a 1930's Alabama winter in this captivating holiday tale. A CHRISTMAS MEMORY chronicles a young boy, Buddy and his friendship with his eccentric relatives, including his cousin and best friend, Sook. Looked after by her spinster sister during one memorable Depression Christmas, the warm and unfailingly cheerful Sook forms a strong bond with shy Buddy as they launch kites, haunt speakeasies and mail fruitcakes to everyone from Jean Harlow to President Roosevelt. The memory of that friendship celebrates the power of love and the spirit of giving. The festive and emotional story promises to put audiences in the holiday spirit, reminding us what Christmas, family and friendship are all about.

A CHRISTMAS MEMORY production team, led by Director William Pullinsi, includes Musical Director William Underwood, Choreographer Allyson Graves, Stage Manager Rebecca Green, Production Manager Ann Davis, Set Designer Angie Miller, Projections Designer Guy Rhodes, Lighting Designer Shelley Strasser-Holland, Costume Designer Brenda Winstead, Sound Designer Barry G. Funderburg, Hair and Wig Designer Kevin Barthel and Props Designer Cassie Schillo.

Photos by Bridget Earnshaw