'Eleanor's Very Merry Christmas Wish — The Musical' available virtually Nov. 27-Dec. 27
Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2020
Kansas State University's McCain Connected series is offering the opportunity to stream "Eleanor's Very Merry Christmas Wish — The Musical" about a rag doll named Eleanor who lives at the North Pole and wishes for a best friend and a home of her own. Photo credit: Matt Ferguson ExecPIX photo. | Download this photo.
MANHATTAN — Kansas State University's McCain Auditorium is teaming up with Eleanor Management LLC to present "Eleanor's Very Merry Christmas Wish — The Musical," the perfect holiday gift to start a new family tradition. The family-friendly production is recommended for all ages and will be available to stream Nov. 27-Dec. 27 for $20 per household.
Based on the heartfelt book of the same name by Chicagoan Denise McGowan Tracy, the musical is the story of a rag doll named Eleanor who lives in the magical world of the North Pole. Despite her love for her North Pole family, including Santa, Mrs. "Cookie" Claus, Clara Claus and the elves Twinkle, Sprinkle and Sparkle, Eleanor's very merry Christmas wish is for a best friend and home of her own. Realizing that wishing is not enough, she writes a letter to Santa expressing her dream. The letter opens the door to answering many questions and to the journey that leads to Eleanor's wish — and others — coming true.
The 2020 virtual production will feature additional holiday music and the recorded opening night performance from the musical's 2019 world premiere in Chicago.
"We are excited and delighted to help bring holiday joy into homes around the area," said Todd Holmberg, McCain director. "We are also grateful that a portion of each ticket purchased will benefit McCain Auditorium."
To register to stream the musical, go to https://www.eleanorswish.com/purchase-tickets and use the promo code MCCMAN20 to get the $20 price. You can also add to your family's viewing fun with one of the two Special Eleanor's Very Merry Christmas Party in a Box options, ranging in price from $45-$60, plus shipping and handling fees.
The boxes offer items inspired by the production. Shipped from the North Pole's special Chicago-based distribution center, the Super Fun Sprinkle & Sparkle Box for $45 includes a softcover copy of the book that inspired the show, a 2020 "Eleanor's Christmas" keepsake ornament, Eleanor's own stationery notepad and pencil for children to write their letters to Santa, and four holiday fun hats. The Super-Duper Fun Eleanor Box for $60 features all items in the Sprinkle & Sparkle Box, along with a hardcover book, cookie cutter with recipe card, and Twinkle's favorite reindeer ring toss game.
Starring in the streamed production of "Eleanor's Very Merry Christmas Wish — The Musical" are Samantha Bonzi as Eleanor; Scott Gryder as Sprinkle; Lindsey Jane Bullen as Twinkle; Emily Rohm as Holly/Clara; Sydney Swanson as Noelle; Erin Parker as Mrs. "Cookie" Claus; Kim Green as Sparkle; David Turrentine as Santa; Claire Latourette as Glimmer; and Cara Chumbley as Shimmer. The production and design crew include Denise McGowan Tracy, playwright/executive producer; Kathleen Butler-Duplessis, music and lyrics; Zachary L. Gray, director; David Fiorello, musical director and music arrangements; Kehoe Designs, scenic design; Tatjana Radisic, costume design; Kevin Barthel, wigs/milliner/accessories; John Kelly, lighting designer; Keegan Bradac, sound designer; and Khaki Pixley, makeup artist.
For more information or to purchase tickets for "Eleanor's Very Merry Christmas Wish — The Musical," visit https://www.eleanorswish.com/purchase-tickets and use the code MCCMAN20 to get the $20 ticket price.
