Riverside Theatre Presents 21st Annual Festival of Trees

Riverside Theatre, led by Producing Artistic Director/CEO Allen D. Cornell and Managing Director/COO Jon R. Moses presents the 21st Annual Festival of Trees. Benefitting Children's Theatre programming and scholarships, the Festival, begins on Friday, November 16 with a glittering gala and A Swingin' Christmas show starring Michael Andrew and continues with the regular showcase on November 17 & 18, 2018.

Featuring a "Favorite Things" theme, the entire Riverside Theatre campus will feature a sparkling world of Christmas trees, holiday displays, a Santa's village, community choirs, and a fun night of surprises for the whole family on Saturday from 4 to 8pm.

Gala attendees on November 16th will welcome the holidays with a progressive evening full of entertainment. The Gala begins at Riverside Children's Theatre with the opening the Festival Forest and Silent Auction with passed hors d'oeuvres, then move to the Riverside Loop for a moveable feast under the stars, and finally enter the Stark Stage for a very special Swingin' Christmas Concert featuring Michael Andrew and his 8-piece Swingerhead Band!

There will be four distinct areas on the Riverside campus for people to enjoy: The Festival Forest, Santa's Village, the Festival Market and the Grand Festival Hall & Christmas Shoppe.

The Festival Forest - Riverside Children's Theatre is transformed into a magical forest with over 50 beautifully decorated trees and 24 holiday wreaths. Designers from all over the area volunteer their time, talent and treasure to create these unique, holiday masterpieces. The gingerbread village, a magical mix of large and small creations, is always a focal point in the display area and completes any home, holiday décor.

Santa's Village - What would a holiday party be without Kris Kringle in attendance? This outdoor area will feature music, performances, family activities, a synthetic skating rink, and Santa himself. Santa's Village will also be the main location for Family Night where kids can enjoy crafts, games, and the twinkling decorations.

Grand Festival Hall & Christmas Shoppe - Riverside Theatre's main building will be a hub of activity with the Community Stage on the Waxlax Stage showcasing performances by local choirs and musicians, our 16 foot Christmas tree, and the festive Christmas Shoppe.

Festival Market - Take a stroll through the latest addition to the Festival of Trees - the Festival Market. Visit our vendors and peruse their sweet treats and festive fashions! The kids can try their skills at Maximum Velocity Gymnastics' Obstacle Course, and parents can enjoy a relaxing chair massage provided by Serenity Solutions.

And of course, the ever popular Breakfast with Santa returns with a visit by Ole St. Nick, musical performances, and a delectable breakfast. There will be a 9am Breakfast on Saturday, November 17 and Sunday, November 18.

Festival hours:

• Friday, November 16 - 6pm to 10pm (Gala Party and performance by

Michael Andrew)

• Saturday, November 17 - 10am to 8pm (Regular Showcase & Family Night)

• Sunday, November 18 - 10am to 4pm (Regular Showcase)

Tickets:

• Glittering Gala with performance by Michael Andrew - $175, $150, $125

• Regular Showcase - $10 adults and $5 children (good for admittance on Saturday, Sunday, and/or Family Night)

• Breakfast with Santa - $22 adults, $18 children, and FREE for children under 3 (Breakfast tickets include admission to the regular showcases on Saturday and Sunday)

The 21st Annual Festival of Trees takes place November 16-18, 2018. To purchase tickets or for more information, call the Box Office at 772-231-6990 or go one line to www.riversidetheatre.com.