LAKEPORT — Two weekend performances of a musical Christmas play titled “The Swehla Family Christmas Show,” will be presented at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday at the Soper-Reese Community Theatre in downtown Lakeport.
In their previous performance on Dec. 4, the Swehlas sang 20 Christmas songs, plus one patriotic song to honor American soldiers overseas who will not be home for Christmas.
Forrest Garrett, manager of the Soper-Reese, said, “I think this is an event not to be missed. The Swehlas are the most beautiful and charming family of singers and performers.”
Bert Hutt, creative director of the Soper-Reese, said, “It”s a great family show. It carries the Christmas spirit. They have nice, tight harmonies and very energetic entertainment.”
Father of the Swehlas, Craig Swehla begins the show with two strong numbers and then introduces his wife Julie and eight of their children, ranging in age from 9 years old to their early 20s.
The set is designed as their family livingroom and Craig invites the audience to share Christmas Eve with his family.
The youngest Swehla, Angelina, brings to mind a young Shirley Temple as she sings “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” while two of her older sisters sing harmony behind her.
Her next older sister, Christina, age 12, will charm the audience with “I”m Dreamin” of a White Christmas.”
Teenagers Joe, Clare, Mary and Johnny each in turn will enthrall the audience with their talented singing. When 19-year-old Johnny sings “I”ll Be Home for Christmas,” teenage girls in the audience may find themselves swooning.
Joe, 14, gets away with some rap before his mother grabs him by the ear and walks him offstage.
The two oldest children, Bridget and Lizzy, plus their mother Julie, set the marks for professionalism in their performances that all of the younger ones follow by example. Bridget will give two sparkling renditions on the keyboards.
This show was produced, written and directed by Bobbie Laine, an experienced promoter from Bransom, Missouri. Laine said she recognized the treasure of talent in Lake County and she wasted no time in presenting them for a wonderful Christmas show.
