South Jersey Players, in association with SPQR Stage Company, will present “Big Louie Is Comin’ to Town,” by Jeff Dunne and directed by Marlene May.
In this 15-minute comedy, Santa Claus (Edward Shakespeare) thinks he has the whole “make the kids happy with gifts” thing in the bag — but just wait. Big Louie (Joe Chialastri) is moving in on his game and believes he has a better business model that will knock Santa right out of the Macy’s display windows. The action takes place in the McAllistor living room on Christmas Eve.
“Magic Flowers,” a 30-minute original play by local playwright Bill Sterritt, also takes place on Christmas Eve in Manhattan. The story follows co-workers at an advertising agency, Ethel and Ralph, who seem to have nothing in common outside the office. Ralph, portrayed by Erik Olsson, is wholly popular, while Ethel, played by Laura Cybert, prepares to spend yet another Christmas Eve alone — with a bottle of wine. An unexpected, shabby-looking guest arrives at Ethel’s door selling flowers. Feeling sorry for the obviously homeless man — and for herself — she buys his “magic flowers,” which he claims will bring her love.
“Magic Flowers” has become a holiday tradition for Atlantic and Cape May County audiences. With the addition of “Big Louie Is Comin’ to Town,” South Jersey Players and SPQR Stage Co. promise a lighthearted, witty holiday package — two plays for the price of one.
Tickets are $20 per person. Reservations can be made by email at spqrstageco@aol.com or by phone at 323-793-2153. For information and livestream tickets, go to studiospacespnj.com.
Studio;Space is located at 112 Woodland Ave. in Somers Point, across from The Crab Trap.
Show times are Friday, Dec. 12 at 8 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 13 at 2 p.m., 4 p.m. and Sunday, Dec.14 at 2 pm.
