The Night Before the Night Before Christmas

“Choosing Kindness” is the theme for The Night Before the Night Before Christmas, presented by the White River Valley Players in the Theater at the Hub (formerly Rochester HS Auditorium) on December 23.

Beginning at 4:45 pm there will be informal caroling for all in the lobby, along with cider and an array of homemade Christmas cookies. Come visit with your neighbors at this pre-show get-together before the program of music, poetry, and stories begins at 5:30.

Festive music will be provided by an 18-voice chorus as well as by Granville Daze and The Three Sues. An instrumental trio comprised of violin, cello, and clarinet will play seasonal and classical favorites, plus there will be several opportunities for an audience sing-along on Christmas and winter songs.

The theme of “Choosing Kindness” will run through a handful of dramatized vignettes written by local playwrights Kate Stauss and Dick Robson. Characters from the children’s classic “Charlotte’s Web” will come to life in a poignant scene about Kindness. Poets will be represented as well, with Leslie Blair, Danny Dover, and Becky McMeekin each reading an original poem that speaks to the theme of the evening.

This event is free and open to the public, with all free-will donations to benefit Feeding the Valley and the Food Shelf at the Rochester Federated Church. All ages are encouraged to come and enjoy this annual community celebration.