At The Dietrich

By
Hildy Morgan

It’s been a tough week at the Dietrich. It’s hard when your best friends are suffering so deeply and there is nothing on earth you can do about it. And it’s hard to know that we have a business to run and have to get back to the business of running it no matter how disloyal that may feel. And even though it flies in the face of logic, life going on feels disloyal both to those who have left this earth and to those who are suffering because of it. Still, many people depend on us at the theater, and we must attend to those needs.

The Christmas calendar is bulging with cultural goodies! If you look at our ad in the Advance you will see just how many wonderful things Margie and Erica have in store for you. Starting with Christmas In Your Home Town, a magical night put together by the Downtown Business Association. It’s a time they hope you will come and walk around the town and soak in all that Christmas nostalgia and beauty. From buggy rides to ice sculptures to Living Nativities to our very own Mum Puppet Theater presentation of The Velveteen Rabbit, there is something for everyone of any age.

It’s also a night to plan to do some serious Christmas shopping in the downtown. You know, we have a great downtown. It’s beautiful, quaint, and has a variety of shops and restaurants. Folks are coming from all over the area to eat in our restaurants, shop in our stores and attend movies in our theater. But sometimes those of us who live here forget that we won’t have a special downtown if we go to the mall to do our major shopping.

Now if you’re going to tell me that it’s cheaper there, I will challenge you that it is not. At the price of gas today, that sale better be pretty amazing. And how often do you shop in the city without eating there, at prices way above what you’ll pay in T’town? Remember that the dollars you spend here help to build the community. It puts money in the pockets of your neighbors and your friends. People who care about this town. There is no reason to leave here when you do your shopping. Think about it. From sporting goods stores, to gift and clothing shops, to antiques, to a new doll store to health foods to theater gift bags or art class certificates – what else do you need? Shop at home this Christmas – it will help your hometown. Now, isn’t that a Christmassy thing to do?

Oh, I have to tell you that on December 7, the Golden Age of Radio Players are putting on a show at Father Nallin Hall. One performance of The Shadow followed by Dickens' A Christmas Carol. Bob Kulow, radio meister, is going to do authentic sound effects. It is all in good fun. There will be some little treats to eat and the admission is free. Try to come. You’ll have a ball.

We are keeping our same movies this week. Christmas With the Kranks is light family fun. I can hear the audience laugh all the way through it. And I actually got to see The Polar Express last week. I have to tell you, I think it’s one of the most beautiful movies I’ve ever seen. It had the same effect on me as A Wonderful Life does – I was reduced to tears at the end. Try to see it while it’s here. It’s just too gorgeous to miss!

Oh yeah – do remember that our gift bags are for sale now. The gift bags help underwrite all those cultural events and classes for the kids and concerts etc. etc. that we have all come to love. And the gift bag sales help to tide us over when Hollywood puts out a chain of clunkers. So, consider our wonderful gift bags and Maureen’s so very clever “poppers” – a gift bag for one, all rolled up with ribbons at both ends and under ten bucks. Perfect for teachers or classmates or anyone you want to remember but have a limited amount to spend on. And remember, everyone is delighted when they get a theater ticket. You just can’t go wrong there.

Oh yeah – don’t forget December 16th and our two showings of It’s A Wonderful Life. The best day o f the year!

I think I got everything in. I go for my next chemo this week. I really, really don’t want to, but what’s the choice? Ah yes, Christmas with no hair – well, there’s a merry thought (Ho Ho Ho).

See you at the Dietrich!

Live at The Dietrich

By

The Dietrich Theater is ready for the holidays! The gallery is festive and gorgeous-snowflakes, teddy bears and Christmas exhibits dazzle your eyes you as you enter the theater. This year, the artistry of Stephen and Calista Hendrickson is featured in the theater’s gallery. Stephen, a set designer who was nominated for an Emmy for his work in the 2003-television version of The Music Man starring Matthew Broderick, has created winter toy theaters of an Enchanted Circus and To Celebrate Winter the King Decreed a Royal Circus. Calista, a former Muppet Show stylist and Teddy Bear Calendar designer, has brought two endearing teddy bear scenes to life. This exhibit will definitely get you into the holiday spirit, so stop by the Dietrich and see it any time the theater is open for movies or other events.

The Dietrich is also showing blockbuster holiday movies! Polar Express seems to be enjoyed by families of all ages. And walking into the theater playing Tim Allen’s new movie, Christmas with the Kranks, on Thanksgiving night, our projectionist was greeted with howls of laughter. This silly slapstick comedy is obviously not Oscar material, but is definitely a lot of fun. The Dietrich will also be bringing in “It’s a Wonderful Life” for two shows on Thursday, December 16th at 2 pm and 7 pm. Watching that black and white classic on the big screen transports you back in time. The Dietrich likes to present this film as a thank you to the community. So come out and enjoy - admission, soda, and popcorn are free!

Now to classes, the Dietrich’s “Marketing and Dialogue Workshop for Screenwriters will take place on Saturday, December 4th from 10 am to 1 pm. Catherine Shefski, a former student of dialogue at NYU’s Screenwriting Department will take you through the ins and outs of marketing and creating great dialogue. If you have an idea or a screenplay already written, this class is the perfect opportunity for you. Marketing is key if you want your screenplay to be noticed and there are certain steps you need to take to get your idea out there. Admission is $30. Please call the theater at 570-996-1500 to register. There are still a few spaces available.

Then on Friday, December 17th at 7:00 pm, the Dietrich Theater will host its first book signing and poetry reading for local poet Jennifer Hill Kaucher. Listen to Jennifer read selections from her new poetry collection Book of Days. Jennifer has taught two poetry classes at the theater previously. Admission is free. Call 570-996-1500 for details.

And don’t forget about all of the other holiday activities at the Dietrich – The Velveteen Rabbit –Live Puppet Theater with Mum Puppet Theater, Holiday Workshop, Build Your Own Puppet Workshop, Wreath Decorating Workshop, Lyric Consort Christmas Concert, Holiday Camp and more! We would like to thank the Tunkhannock Kiwanis Club and the Pennsylvania Performing Arts on Tour for sponsoring The Velveteen Rabbit. For information about any events or classes at the Dietrich, call the theater at 570-996-1500 or visit www.dietrichtheater.com.

More than the Movies at the Dietrich Theater

Art Class for Preschoolers - Thursdays

These aspiring young artists will have the opportunity to experiment in a variety of materials such as clay, collage and tempra to create their unique works of art.

Thursdays, 12:00 - 12:45 p.m. . November 11, 18, Dec. 2, 9.

Cost: $25 for each series of four classes

Instructor: Amy Colley

Dietrich Theater Writer's Group

Love to Write? Join at any time. Group focuses on pop -ficton.

Thursdays, 7:00 - 8:00 pm, through December 2

Free!

Dietrich Theater Writer's Group members

Holiday Camp

Young artists will become familiar with the self portraits and symbolism of Frida Kahlo, the expressive paintings of Vincent Van Gogh, and the genius of sculptor and painter, Leonardo Da Vinci, by exploring a variety of mediums as they create their own masterpieces.

Monday - Wednesday, December 27, 28, 29, Ages 6 -8: 9 am - 10:30 am; Ages 9 - 12: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm

Cost: $30

Amy Colley

Holiday Workshop, for all ages

Get into the holiday spirit! A morning of cookie decorating, songs, stories, holiday crafts, and creations by the balloon lady. Fun for all ages.

Saturday, December 11th at 11:00 am - 12:30 pm

Free

Dietrich Theater

Mixed Media, ages 5 - 8

Give your child the opportunity to explore their creativity through charcoal and pencil, watercolors and clay while learning about proportion and perspective.

Fridays, 4:00 - 5:30 pm, November 12, 19, Dec. 3, 10.

Cost: $25 for each series of four classes

Amy Colley

Mixed Media, Ages 9-12

Give your child the opportunity to explore their creativity through charcoal and pencil, watercolors and clay while learning about proportion and perspective.

Mondays, 4:00 - 5:30 pm, November 8, 15, Dec. 6, 13.

$25 for eac series of four classes

Instructor: Steve Colley

Mixed Media/ Portfolio Prep for Adults, ages 13 and up

This class is a great opportunity for students to build a diverse portfolio as you draw, paint and create pottery & sculpture. Even if you are not planning a portfolio, you will be able to experience art using a variety of materials and learn new techniques.

Wednesdays, 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m., November 10, 17, Dec. 1, 8.

Cost: $40 for each series of four classes.

Instructor: Steve Colley

Pottery and Sculpture for Adults, ages 13 and up

In this class, students will learn hand-building techniques using earthenware as they become familiar with the works of artists such as Rodin, Michelangelo and Picasso. All levels of experience welcome. Individualized instruction.

Mondays, 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., November 8, 15, Dec. 6, 13.

Cost: $40 for each series of four classes.

Instructor: Steve Colley

Quilting for Kids, ages 6 and up

Kaleidoscope Magic - Have you ever marveled over a kaleidoscope? Each slight turn creates an amazing design. We will teach you how to capture all this in a quilt. Bring your imagination...we'll supply the rest.

Wednesdays, 3:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., through December 15.

Cost: $6 per class

Instructors: Ingrid Rogler/ Gloria Eastwood

Screenwriting Dialogue, Character and Marketing Workshop

Dialogue plays several major roles in a good screen play. It moves the story forward, gives depth to characters and illustrates conflict. Film clips and in-class writing samples will be used to improve dialog and character development. When you've finished your script and you're ready to show it, marketing your product comes into play. Learn how to write an effective logline and query letter. Find out how you can get your script in the hands of agents and producers. Learn about contests and online script posting services. Practice your pitch. Call 570-996-1500 to register. Snacks will be provided.

Saturday, December 4th from 10:00 am - 1:00 pm

$30

Instructor: Catherine Shefski

Wreath Decorating Workshop

Decorate a fresh or artificial wreath or door swag and learn how to make ribbon bows. Advanced registration is necessary. Please call the theater at 570-996-1500 to signup.

Saturday, December 11, 11:00 am - 12:30 pm

Class is free. Wreath and Materials $10 - $20

Instructor: Maggie Cartwright

Yoga for You

Accommodations will be made for beginners, experienced practitioners, and those with special needs. Ages 9 to adult. Classes will be ongoing in October through December. Call (570)-996-1500 for exact dates.

Wednesdays, 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. - December 1, 8, 15, 22.

Cost: Adults $10 per session

Presented by Melissa Russo.