Pantochino's New Holiday Musical SCHOOL FOR ELVES to Debut in Milford

Award-winning Pantochino Productions Inc., a professional, not-for-profit theatre company for family audiences, will open it's new holiday musical, "School For Elves" on Friday, December 1, 7:30pm, at the Center for the Arts in Downtown Milford.

"School For Elves" is a merry, bright and heartwarming new holiday story by Bert Bernardi (book and lyrics) and Justin Rugg (music). The musical tells the story of Yule School, where newly recruited elves learn, work and play while assisting Santa Claus in making the holiday happen. When new headmaster, Mr. Sassafras takes charge, things are amiss, spirits falter and the holiday itself is in question. It's up to the elves to rally together to make sure Christmas comes as happily as planned.

"This is such a joyful new holiday story for families to share," said Bernardi. "It's chock full of wonderful characters, memorable songs and lots of surprises." The show features one of Pantochino's largest casts including eleven young actors who play the elves. "We can't wait to introduce these tiny, talented performers-they really are something special" added Bernardi.

Appearing onstage in "School for Elves" are company members Jimmy Johansmeyer, Mary Mannix, Shelley Marsh Poggio, Maria Berte, Justin Rugg, Hannah Duffy and Valerie Solli. They will be joined by Greg Hatzis and Don Poggio. Playing the new recruit elves are Gavin Conte, Annabel Wardman, Connor Rizzo, Sierra DiMartino, Rowan Simonelli, Luke Hatzis, Ainsley Novin, Adeline Horne, Sebastian Bianchine, Briana Jackson and Ainsley Dahlstrom. The show features sets by Von Del Mar, lighting by Jeff Carr, sound by Sara Brown and costumes by Johansmeyer. Amy Craw is the production stage manager.

Pantochino Productions Inc.,now in it's seventh season, brings original musical theatre for family audiences to the greater New Haven area. New this season, all Friday and Saturday performances will feature cafe seating at tables and chairs. Patrons are invited to bring their own food and drink during the show. Sunday performances will be sat in traditional row seating.

"School For Elves " will be performed December 1 through 17 with shows Fridays at 7:30pm, Saturdays and Sundays at 2pm. A special Saturday 5:30pm performance will be held on December 2. Tickets are $20. online, or $22. at the door. Advance tickets are strongly suggested. The intimate Milford Center for the Arts is located at 40 Railroad Avenue South on the east bound side of the Metro-North tracks. Free parking is available in the train station lots. Further details are available at pantochino.com.

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