Brookfield Actor in Acacia Theatre’s “Sanders Family Christmas"

MILWAUKEE (Nov. 10, 2018) – Filippo Carini, of Brookfield, performs as Stanley Sanders in Acacia Theatre’s seasonal musical production, “Sanders Family Christmas.” This sequel to the much-loved bluegrass gospel musical “Smoke on the Mountain” followsthe Sanders family as they return to Mount Pleasant, NC for Christmas in 1941. The script, written by Connie Ray, and conceived by Alan Bailey, with musical arrangements by Gary Fagin and John Foley features plenty of fun and laughter. Janet Bouman Peterson directs this production, which includes many of the cast of “Smoke.”

Carini, a returning member, talked about his role. “I play Stanley, Burl’s brother and the uncle to kids in the show. Everyone makes a fuss over me, since I have been on the radio and in the movies, though I don’t understand what the big deal is. I guarantee audiences will love this production, lots of laughs and upbeat fun/music.”

Peterson directed “Smoke on the Mountain” for Acacia twice in the past. She said, “For anyone who enjoyed that show, you will also love this. It is full of joy, music, truth, family and even a touch of romance. With four returning cast members and three new folks who have worked with everyone before, we are already ahead of the game in creating the Sanders family.”

The show, full of seasonal and toe-tapping music, adds to the challenge of producing the play. “It is difficult work, since almost every actor plays an instrument, sings and acts, and it is so gratifying as it comes together,” Peterson said.

“The love of family is first and foremost for this production. All of the characters know they are loved by the other, even though they still squabble, act out, and misbehave. In the end, they love each other enough to welcome one another, and enough to let them go their own ways. Another theme of this play is equality. It doesn’t matter how much money you have or how famous you are - it doesn’t make you any more important than the person who has less,” Peterson said.

“I think that people should come to the theater for an incredibly good time. They will laugh, be entertained, and they will be touched. And maybe, just maybe, they will sing,” said Peterson.

“This play will kick off the holiday season because it is about the love we share with our nuclear family, but also the faith and fellowship we share with the family of believers,” said David Sapiro.

“Sanders Family Christmas” includes David Sapiro, Elaine Wyler, Filippo Carini, David Duncan III, Laura Heise, Abbey Pitchford and Zack Home, with musical direction by Jane Foerster.

The performances will be given in Concordia University Wisconsin’s Todd Wehr Auditorium, 12800 North Lake Shore Drive in Mequon, Wis.

Performances

Sat., Nov. 17 at 7:30 P.M; Sun., Nov. 18 at 3:00 PM; Sat., Nov. 24 at 4:00 P.M. Sun., Nov., 25 at 3:00 PM; Thurs., Nov. 29 at 7:30 PM; Fri., Nov. 30 at 7:30 PM; Sat., Dec. 1 at 4:00 PM; Sun., Dec. 2 at 3:00.

Season Subscription and Single Ticket Information

Season subscriptions cost $40, or $34 for senior citizens, full-time students, and full-time clergy. Single tickets for all productions are on sale now. The single ticket prices for the season are $18 for adults, and $15 for seniors, full-time students, and full-time clergy, and $10 for children 12 and under. More information is available by calling (414) 744-5995 or visiting www.acaciatheatre.com

About Acacia Theatre Company

Founded in 1980, Acacia Theatre Company is an independent, non-profit, interdenominational group of dramatic artists who share a common desire to integrate art and faith by presenting theatre from a Judeo-Christian worldview. Through uplifting, quality entertainment, Acacia provides occasion for thanksgiving, growth and enjoyment, and the opportunity for Christians and non-Christians to consider their lives in relation to God. More information is available at www.acaciatheatre.com.

Photo ID:

Left to Right: Filippo Carini, Elaine Wyler, David Sapiro, Zack Horne, Abbey Pitchford, Laura Heise, David Duncan III
Photo Credit: Lisa Gordee and Laura Heise