Friday, December 5, 2003

THE EASTERN COURIER

Volunteers build spirit of Christmas 

By Catherine Myhre

The Picton Centre auditorium is being transformed in the spirit of Christmas. Helpers from the Howick Community Church are among volunteers creating a magical set for the centre’s Great Christmas Show. They are working daily with donated curtains, cloth and recycled materials.

Fairy lights, elves and an enchanted forest are part of the set design but that’s all designer Tina Chang will reveal, because she wants to pleasantly surprise audiences on the night. “When they walk into the auditorium they’ll see the difference,” Miss Chang says.

The Sowers Trust has organised the show, which is produced by the Howick Community Church.

Miss Chang hopes the set will be completed by December 10. “We’ve got a good group of people who will make it all happen.”

The show will feature carols, a pantomime, a Nativity play and the arrival of Santa. Miss Chang is sure it will attract a capacity audience of 350. “We’re trying to create a new tradition for the community so that when December comes each year families will be looking forward to The Great Christmas Show,” she says.

A child performer is still needed as a singer or magician. Children wishing to be considered should visit the Sowers Trust office at the Picton Centre, or phone: 537-3712 or 021-896-467.

The Great Christmas Show will be held on December 18 and 19, at the Picton Centre, 120 Picton St, Howick. Free tickets are available from the Eastern Courier office in Fencible Drive and from the Picton Centre.

SANTA’S HELPERS. Residents preparing the set for The Great Christmas Show are, clockwise from front: Tina Chang, Lyle De Villiers, Leah Espie, Storm De Villiers, Laura Magowan, Alicia Dann and Adina Ispas.