Enter the Dietrich Theater and experience wonder and delight. Christmas season at the Dietrich Theater in Tunkhannock should be a destination for all. Everyone is invited to see the displays of antique dolls and a totally furnished doll house, antique toys from Patrick Robinsonâ??s special collection, illustrations from Isabel Wilnerâ??s childrenâ??s book B is for Bethlehem, a miniature barn scene showing what the animals do the night before Christmas, and Steve Colleyâ??s magnificent art glass constructions. To top it all off, Carol Brownâ??s oil paintings of local and historical scenes will trigger memories for everyone.

Since it reopened in 2001, the Dietrich Theater in Tunkhannock has delighted the community with its historic and whimsical holiday decorations. The exterior is colorfully and brightly lit with thousands of lights, and the interior art galleries and halls are decorated with hundreds of ornaments and special lighting.

What will you see this year at the Dietrich? Among Patrick Robinsonâ??s antique toys are homemade constructions as well as wind-up toys, books, and games. Donâ??t miss the toy Big Parade or the wind-up bear drinking milk. Elisa Klevenâ??s illustrations for the picture book B is for Bethlehem and Tunkhannockâ??s Isabel Wilnerâ??s four childrenâ??s books help to celebrate an award-winning author of beloved books. And do you know what barn animals do on Christmas Eve? You might be surprised when you see Sarah Sidorekâ??s lighted barn scene, complete with four dioramas with chickens, sheep, donkeys, and many other animals. As an added feast for the eyes, you will find the artful renderings in recycled glass by Steve Colley, truly unique and sparkling creations.

Carolyn Northernerâ??s 19th Century Dolls are seldom seen by the public, so do not miss this opportunity. One of the stunning dolls is child sized, created by Cuno and Otto Dressel in Germany to exactly resemble the daughter of the artist. She is displayed among many other beautifully costumed dolls from France, Austria, and Germany. Easy to miss is a tiny sled with a boy and dogs that was commissioned by explorer Admiral Byrd for his daughter.

Brought back by popular demand is Amy Colleyâ??s family dollhouse. It was salvaged by her father for his two daughters and furnished by her mother. It is complete with rugs, lights, family photos, and many more loving details. Displayed with moonlight coming in the windows and snow on the ground, it fires the imagination with Christmas expectation.

Historical and contemporary scenes from the Endless Mountains region are displayed in oil paintings by Carol Angela Brownâ??s Tea-Time Art Studio in Dimock, PA. See Santa round the corner of Bridge Street and Tioga Street in Tunkhannock, right after a snowfall. Another painting shows a ferry crossing the Susquehanna River 100 years ago. Carol captures the beauty and history of the area.

The holiday decorations at the Dietrich Theater are installed by an entire team of volunteers, true Santaâ??s Helpers, under the direction of Sarah Sidorek, Dietrich Theater Manager.

The displays are open to the public through the first week in January any time movies are shown or by appointment. For information call 570.996.1500.