December 1, 2023 (Oklahoma City, OK)—Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park stages Jane Austen’s Christmas Cracker for the third time, running December 7th – 23rd in the company’s new indoor theater, located at 2920 Paseo, Oklahoma City, OK 73103. The production is directed by Dillon Rasberry, and tickets are on sale at Oklahoma Shakespeare (okshakes.org).
The story follows Jane Austen (Maddie Wall) and her sister, Cassandra (Lindsey Rollins) as they host a ball in their home, in the year 1796. The theatre transforms into a holiday celebration – complete with lights, garland, Christmas trees, & wreaths. Braum’s Ice Cream & Dairy Store returns once again as the sponsor this season, providing free ice cream and treats to the entire audience, along with their very own take-home Christmas Cracker! New this season are a beautiful outdoor lighting display welcoming patrons in, donated by Urban Lawn & Landscape, and The Paseo Grill, who sponsors our opening night cast party.
“The community has rallied behind this new holiday tradition in OKC, and we are so pleased to see it return for the third time at Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Paseo!” said Executive Producer Tyler Woods.
The story continues as Jane and her sister invite characters from her novels including Elizabeth Bennet (Olivia Akers), Mr. Darcy (Justin Marlow), Mrs. Bennet (Zaneen Fletcher-Hall), Lydia Bennet (Kerynn Eckenrode), Elinor Dashwood (Lily Marsh), Marianne Dashwood (Ariana Sophia), Edward Ferrers (Joshua Murray), Col. Brandon (Evan Wolfe), Capt. Wentworth (Karam Alkhatib), and Anne Elliot (Jacey Nichole). These famous characters present scenes from their novels, following the story of how they each fell in love. Intermittently, they invite audience members to dance with them, teaching the period-style dance seen in Jane Austen films, sing traditional Christmas Carols, and even play parlor games!
“I am proud to have created this new holiday tradition, honoring one of my favorite authors, and so pleased it has continued to be produced in Oklahoma City but such a venerable company as Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park. I think this unique holiday experience is an opportunity to create some sweet memories for you and your whole family!” – Erin Woods, local playwright, and author.
The central “treat” for our audience is the ice cream! generously donated by Braum’s Ice Cream & Dairy once again this year! Holiday themed beverages fill our new bar & lounge, The Mermaid Tavern, featuring treats for children and adults alike such as Hot Cider & Egg Nogg (spiked and un-spiked), and holiday themed cocktails & beer!
“We are so proud of the transformation of our venue and feel that this holiday season is the perfect way to celebrate the hard work that has gone into making this one of the most beautiful little gems in the Oklahoma City theatre community!” said Henri Bailey, Oklahoma Shakespeare Operations Manager
The creative team includes director (and OSP Board Member) Dillon Rasberry, scenic designer Edward Morris, costume designer Annie Armstrong, music direction by Amanda Lee, props design by Henri Bailey, lighting design by Clara Wiebe, and dance choreography by Rebekah Valencia. Scenic fabrication is by Robert Rickner, and Jenna Rowell serves as Stage Manager for the production.
Jane Austen’s Christmas Cracker
By Erin Woods, from the novels & letters of Jane Austen
Where: Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park
Address: 2920 Paseo, Oklahoma City, OK 73103
Theater: Indoor Black Box Theatre
When: December 7th – 23rd, 2023
Time: Wednesdays (Dec. 20 only) & Thursdays at 7:30p / Fridays & Saturdays at 8:00p / Sundays at 2:00pm
Tickets: Oklahoma Shakespeare (okshakes.org)
Rated: G
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