[The Performance]

Amahl and the Night Visitors by Gian Carlo Minotti has been a favorite Christmas opera for family audiences for the last fifty years, and it continues to appeal to young and old alike. This year, on December 9^th, at 4 o’clock, the Opera Company of the Highlands will present a fully costumed version in St. Mary’s-in-Tuxedo, with professional singers, a fourteen piece orchestra, scenery and lighting. It will be a wonderful experience for us all!

For those not familiar with the work, the story is about a poor, crippled boy who is given to telling tall tales, so when he sees an amazing star in the sky, no one believes him. When a knock on the door reveals three magnificent kings seeking shelter, the mother, child, and neighbors welcome them in! Theft, forgiveness, misunderstanding, a gift, healing ... all lead eventually to the child accompanying the kings on their journey to Bethlehem and the Christ Child. It has all the ingredients of a real fairy tale and brings out the true meaning and spirit of Christmas!

The performance lasts about one hour and will be followed by a reception in Bentley Hall where the cast and audience will get together for festive food and drink.

This event is being jointly sponsored by the Tuxedo Performing Arts Group and St. Mary’s. Tickets will be on sale at St. Mary’s Office, Tuxedo Park School, Tuxedo Park Preferred Properties, Tuxedo Park Estates and Tuxedo Wines and Liquors beginning November 5^th.

This event coincides with the first Sunday for St. Mary’s new rector, Rev. Elizabeth McWhorter, so we hope this will have an extra large attendance by parishioners and community to welcome her into our parish and our lively and hospitable town.