When an idea to write an original Christmas play came about, Barb Dingee couldn't help but jump at the chance to create a little of her own Christmas magic

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By Lauren Kennedy

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Barb Dingee wants people to open their hearts at the idea of sharing and hopes that everyone can make a difference, even if it's a small one, in the lives of others after watching her play.

The former drama teacher, writer and director of plays at Centreville Intermediate/Middle School has created an original work of art in time to celebrate this Christmas season.

In the past she has written about 15 different plays and this one will be the second she has written for her church, Centreville United.

The play centres on the idea that through sharing, we can make a difference and perhaps lift our own spirits a little in doing so.

The idea of the play, titled ‘A brush with Christmas,' came about by a simple conversation.

"Four of us were having a discussion one evening at a committee meeting about activities we could do to enhance our church community and someone suggested a play. It started from there. Since I have been involved in drama most of my life, I decided to take on this task," she recalled.

As she searched through different ideas already created and sifted through the endless amounts of existing Christmas plays, Dingee knew she wanted a play which could involve both adults and children. She just couldn't find a play that suited her church group. So ... she decided to write one.

"I had an idea for a play, but decided to develop it more and have a workshop where I had them (the church group) do some drama activities. I got a few ideas for characters from this and developed it from there," said Dingee.

The cast currently has 21 members and five extra carolers involved.

Dingee explains the plot.

"The play is centered around the home of Grandma (Gracie) played by Brenda DeMerchant and Grandpa (Matthew) Clark played by Raymond Green. Matthew and Gracie are expecting a quiet Christmas and perhaps because of this, Grandma is feeling a little out of sorts. However, a number of unusual, but interesting characters arrive and the action starts," she explains.

A number of people in the congregation have helped with such things as formatting posters on the computer and preparing programs and Dingee has had lots of help from the cast with the production.

Lorena Green is the producer of the play and sums up her experience with it in one word.

"Excited. I'm very excited about this," she said.

Dingee expects the play to be a nice getaway and a chance for people to come together and get into the Christmas spirit.

"The cast has been great," she said. "We have had lots of laughs and we are now ready for an audience."

Opening night will be Thursday Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. and again on Dec. 7 at 3 p.lm. and it is expected to run about 45 minutes. It is by donation, with the proceeds being split three ways between the Centreville United Church, Habitat for Humanity, and the Centreville Community School soccer field.