You'll shoot your eye out, kid!

The wind takes a turn for the colder; our favorite carols play on the radio, and the air is thick with anticipation as December 25th approaches. And, what better way to revel in that perennial childlike giddiness than to gather the family together to enjoy a classic Christmas comedy? Come join us as Schoolhouse Arts Center presents Jean Shepherd's A Christmas Story: the riotous tale of young Ralphie Parker, who desires nothing more than to receive a "Legendary, Official, Red Ryder, 200 shot, carbine action, range model, air rifle," for Christmas. Despite dire warnings about losing an eye, Ralphie, is determined to succeed in his endeavor.

When he isn't busy saving his family from bandits, or running away from the terrifying, yellow-eyed Scut Farkas, Ralphie is diligently working on his plans of subtle, even subconscious suggestion -- gently infusing Red Ryder mania into the minds of his parents. This side-splitting venture, deep into the mind of the pre-Christmas 3rd grader features over 20 actors, of all ages, from the Lakes Region and beyond and is not only a cult classic, but a family favorite.

It gets even better! Join us an hour before performance for Schoolhouse's Holiday Bazaar. Come listen to, and sing along with, your favorite Christmas carols performed by Schoolhouse voice students. Bring the kids to meet Santa and make their own special gifts, while you catch up on shopping for those last few wayward Christmas presents at the Schoolhouse Thrift Store's Christmas Shoppe!

A Christmas Story runs December 5-20th, with performances at 7:30 on Fridays and Saturdays and 2:00 on Sundays. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. Thursday, December 4th is a special college preview night-just show your college ID and get in for only $5! Call (207) 642-3743 for reservations. Schoolhouse Arts Center is located at the intersection of routes 114 and 35 in Standish (map here).

The Parker Family: Kate Loukas as the mother, Mike Harris as "the old man", Tim Manning as Ralphie (right), Ben Plummer as Randy (front).