Two Alhambra dinner shows for the month of December

Photos: Jamie Iames Repper

Sorry that we were unable to let you know about the current featured production at the Alhambra Theater & Dining, but the premiere showing of “A Christmas Story” sold out early (there are still a few single seats available).  They even had to add Wednesday matinees that are already gone.  Like the original story, this program is not a musical.  Most Alhambra attendees are used to seeing either a show with a lot of dialogue, or one that features music and dancing.  “A Christmas Story” is all about the tale told by actor Ethan Paulini* (Ralph as an adult), and it is a great story.  Ethan has a large amount of dialogue that he delivers quite eloquently throughout the entire performance.

Based on the humorous writings of author Jean Shepherd, this beloved holiday movie follows the wintry exploits of youngster Ralphie Parker (Peter Billingsley), who spends most of his time dodging a bully (Zack Ward) and dreaming of his ideal Christmas gift, a "Red Ryder air rifle." Frequently at odds with his cranky dad (Darren McGavin) but comforted by his doting mother (Melinda Dillon), Ralphie struggles to make it to Christmas Day with his glasses and his hopes intact.

At the end of the presentation, the cast seemed larger than it actually was.  Kudos go out to all the performers (the children, along with Mom and Dad, stole the show).  It takes a lot to expect a child to remember their lines, get some rest, get homework done, eat, do children stuff, go to school the next day and be ready to do it all over again for a different audience, for nine shows a week, and four weeks in December. Whew!

Bravo and Brava to: Oliver Carson (Ralphie Parker), Jazmin Gorsline* (Mother), Robert Herrle* (The Old Man), Harrison Davey (Randy), Alexia Adcock-Stanford* (Miss Shields), Johnny Warren (Schwartz), Sophia Feagins (Ester Jane Alberry), Dakota Burton (Helen Weathers), Kaden Quiles (Scut Farkus), and as always to Tod Booth*.  You and your production staff pulled off a wonderful adaptation from the original story adding ingenuity with the scenery, dogs and the turkey.  Lest we forget the gourmet meal prepared by Chef DeJuan Roy.  It was something to be Thankful for.
*denotes members of Actors’ Equity Association*

The second treat for the month will be the New Year’s Eve Gala event.  Join the Alhambra Theater and Dining for an evening of music, food, dancing and friends.  The night and morning will feature The Piano Men Tribute– a Las Vegas-style concert show featuring the music of Elton John, Billy Joel and Jerry Lee Lewis, plus dancing all night to the live music of the magnificent Crescendo Amelia Big Band along with the culinary magic of Executive Chef DeJuan Roy!  Take a look below and see what you’ll receive during your evening and early morning festivities.

New Year’s Eve Gala 2016/2017
DATE: Sat. Dec. 31 – Sun. Jan. 1, 2016 - 2017
TIME: Doors Open At: 6:30 p.m.
DRESS: “Formal Wear Requested”

TICKETS: $129 per person.  Reservations are required.
Ticket prices include:
Champagne reception & hors d’oeuvres.
Three-course table-served dinner.
Midnight champagne toast & balloon drop.
Their famous Midnight Breakfast Buffet.
Exclusive Prime Parking.
Price does not include gratuity or orders from the bar.

LOCATION: Alhambra Theater & Dining
      12000 Beach Blvd.
      Jacksonville, Florida 32246
      (904) 641-1212

Don’t be left out in the cold.  If you missed “A Christmas Story” (SOLD OUT!), then you don’t want to miss the New Year’s Gala.  Tickets are going FAST!

Looking for something to do on New Year's Eve? Why not dinner, entertainment, food, dancing, more food, champagne, more food etc.