The business of theatre never allows us to stand still. It is always moving from one show to the next; from one season to another. Charles Dickens, whose works inhabit the Lesher Center during these last weeks of 2009 (CCMT’s Oliver through November 7th and Center REP’s A Christmas Carol Dec. 10-20) was quoted as saying, “The voice of Time cries to man, Advance! Time is for his advancement and improvement; for his greater worth, his greater happiness, his better life.”
As we move forth into November, it is hard to believe that this current year is coming to a close so quickly, and yet we are reminded after the recent nineteenth birthday celebration for the LCA this past October, that twenty years come and go before we know it. Here we are entering our twentieth year at the Center, celebrating and supporting the arts, and there is no doubt that the LCA has improved the quality of life in our community and brought much happiness to hundreds and thousands of people over the years.
There are eighty-five organizations that produce quality entertainment at the Lesher Center throughout the year, and with the holidays around the corner it is worth noting that gift certificates are available at Center Tickets right now and make wonderful stocking stuffers and gifts for friends and family members of all ages. This month Center REPertory Company is offering two fabulous productions for your enjoyment. In the Lesher Theatre, Agatha Christie’s courtroom drama masterpiece Witness for the Prosecution is taking audiences on a nail-biting journey of suspense and twisty-plotting through November 21st. Often heralded as the Queen of Drama, Agatha Christie’s script is in the capable and talented hands of Center REP Artistic Director Michael Butler. His stellar cast including Bay Area favorites Ken Ruta, Carrie Paff, Mark Phillips and Mark Farrell will keep you guessing right up to its final hair-raising curtain!
In the Hofmann Theatre, Center REP is thrilled to present The Reduced Shakespeare Company in The Complete Works of William Shakespeare, Abridged. (Nov. 12-14). This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see what critics around the world have called “one of the funniest shows you are likely to see in your entire lifetime.” The original actors that made this show an international sensation will return to the Lesher Center for this three day must see production that you and your family won’t want to miss.
The ever popular Smuin Ballet Company will return Thanksgiving weekend (Nov. 27-28) and will brilliantly decorate and usher in the start of the upcoming holiday season with their 2009 edition of The Christmas Ballet.
For tickets or more information about these great shows as well as all of the fine offerings at the Lesher Center through the end of this year and beyond see www.lesherARTScenter.org or call Center Tickets at (925) 943-SHOW!
THE LESHER CENTER FOR THE ARTS
SCOTT DENISON, GENERAL MANAGER