Photo by Keith Ian Polakoff

'An O. Henry Christmas': an uplifting seasonal story

"An O. Henry Christmas," a Howard Burman play, premiered Friday and will run through Saturday, Dec. 21 at the campus Cal Rep Theatre.

The play takes place on Christmas Eve in New York, 1893.

The cast consists of homeless, miserable individuals who have given up on the idea of Christmas.

Along comes O.P., a fugitive from an Oaklahoma prison, who helps the gang rediscover the spirit of the season.

O.P. trades stories with the group in exchange for food.

As the cast act out these tales, all the characters moods change.

The humor in the play, together with its varied characters, is simple to follow and captivating.

The talented cast included Jennifer Fowler as Marguerite, and Matt Southwell as Hal who both gave outstanding performances.

Other cast members are Baron Kelly, Ron Lindblom, Deanna Boyd, Michael A. Pando and Jeff Paul.

This play is suitable for all ages. My 5-year-old son viewed the entire performance without falling asleep.

Tickets for the show are $15 and can be purchased at the Arts Ticket Office.

For further information on showtimes, one may call (310) 985-7000.