'The Gifts of the Magi' opens at DPRCA Saturday

"It's the old story: no work and no pay make jack pretty scarce," as writer Howard Brubaker once said.

Wander back to Christmas 1930 and the height of the Great Depression with DPRCA's heartwarming holiday musical, "The Gifts of the Magi," opening Saturday, Nov. 30.

It is Christmas in New York, but for two young lovers, Jim and Della, the prospects are bleak. It's the height of the Great Depression and both are out of work and penniless. But as those familiar with O. Henry's famous story know, their dilemma is solved when both part with their most precious possessions in order to buy gifts for each other. For one magical moment, an aura of warmth and giving prevails in the cold, impersonal winter city.

DPRCA regulars may remember Christmas 2015, when the local troupe last performed "The Gifts of the Magi." There's an all-new cast this time around, featuring several recognizable faces from shows past as well as one new talent.

Taking the lead as Della Dillingham is Emma Bennett, who starred in both "The Christmas Show" last December and "Marvelous Wonderettes" this spring. Alongside her in the role of Jim Dillingham is the new face, Zachary Crawford. A Sioux City, Iowa native, Crawford graduated with a bachelor's degree in musical theatre from NDSU this spring. He played Chuck in "Footloose" and Bob Crewe in "Jersey Boys," both at Ft. Totten Little Theatre, before making his debut on the DPRCA stage.

DPRCA's own Elliott Schwab and Erin Greiner take on the roles of City Him and City Her. Rounding out the cast are two young Western Illinois University alums who made their debut on the DPRCA stage in 2021 with "Life Could Be a Dream." Soapy Smith is brought to life by Kelly Brown (Eugene), while Willy Porter is portrayed by Danny Hollander (Denny).

"Gifts of the Magi" opens Saturday, Nov. 30, with ten performances on Thursdays through Sundays until Dec. 15. Thursday and Friday showtime is 7:30 p.m. with matinees on Saturday and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Book your seats online at http://www.dprca.com.

Enjoy a delicious Christmas dinner served before each performance. Choose from stuffed chicken breast with garlic mashed potatoes, salmon on a bed of rice/quinoa, classic roast beef dinner or alfredo pasta primavera. There is also a mac and cheese option for the kids.

Seats are limited and dinner reservations are required, so text the box office at (701) 399-9354 with your show date and entrée of choice today!