We know Thanksgiving is here when the Dietrich Theater is gorgeously decorated in all its sparkling glory. This year is no exception.

The elves are busy installing lights, displays, dioramas and decorations that adorn the theater at this time of year, making it a holiday destination. Especially festive are thousands of lights throughout the theater, resulting in “oohs” and “ahs” as people enter the Earnshaw Gallery. Come see the surprise resident who lives in an underground house display, antique toys, handmade wooden toys, artwork for sale and a beautiful hand-decorated dollhouse all ready for Christmas.

To usher in the season, the Dietrich Radio Players will present a special trio of 1940s and 1950s radio plays on stage at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 1: one from the Jack Benny series, one from the Our Miss Brooks series and one from the Mysterious Traveler series.

Thirteen volunteer actors have been rehearsing since October to bring old-time holiday radio programs to a growing audience. Even though radio plays are “Theater of the Mind,” there will be lots to see. The actors will make every effort to dress in 1940s garb, and Esther Harmatz will work her sound effects magic. Radio play purists, however, can close their eyes and experience the plays the way they were written: to be heard and not seen. All can come for the plays and stay for the celebratory cake following the performance.

Christmas in Our Hometown kicks off Friday and Saturday, Dec. 4 and 5 with two free showings of “Emmet Otter’s Jugband Christmas,” including free popcorn, at 5:30 and 7 p.m. both nights. The Cookie Walk begins at 5 p.m. Friday and continues into Saturday, beginning at 11 a.m. until the cookies are all sold. Continuing a 14-year tradition, the Holiday Workshop invites everyone to decorate a cookie, make a holiday ornament and take home a balloon work of art, created by the Balloon Lady.

The Dietrich is grateful to Ace-Robbins, Inc. for sponsorship of the Holiday Workshop and “Emmet Otter’s Jugband Christmas” showings.

Calling all kids: It’s not too late to sign up for Holiday Camp, to be held from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Monday through Wednesday, Dec. 28-30. Enjoy three days of pottery, drawing and painting with Steve Colley in the Sheldon Art Studio. When the festivities wind down after Christmas, this is a wonderful opportunity to get away and explore an art activity with others ages 5 to 12. Admission is $30 and includes all supplies.

Get in the holiday spirit! See the Dietrich Theater in its splendor when the lights are lit Thanksgiving evening, then come and join the community celebration. You will be glad you did and so will we.

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More Than Movies

Erica Rogler

Reach the Abington Journal newsroom at 570-587-1148 or news@s24528.p831.sites.pressdns.com