Orland Theatre Troupe Debuts 'Family Fruit Cake'

ORLAND PARK, IL - A quirky, family-friendly holiday show centered on one determined mom's commitment to give her family a "normal" Christmas debuts Friday in Orland Park.

Members of the Village of Orland Park Theatre Troupe are encouraging residents to get into the holiday spirit this weekend by attending any of "The Family Fruitcake" play's performances — at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 8 and Saturday, Dec. 9, or at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 10. All shows are held in the Orland Park Civic Center at 14750 Ravinia Ave.

The performance spotlights main character Laurie McKinnon, a mother who is working tirelessly to deliver a showstopping holiday, despite that her oldest son is away on military duty.

"Laurie rushes about making sure everything is ready for the impending arrival of the extended family, although her husband and teenage daughter are unconvinced of the need to impress everyone," said a community alert from the local Theatre Troupe. "Meanwhile, youngest daughter arrives downstairs in full camouflage makeup. Her mother is less than enthused. Visitors soon trickle in and comedy ensues."

Director Frann Carnivele and assistant director, Mary Tuminello, are behind the play, which was written by Rebecca Frohling.

"I love doing shows with hidden meaning," Carnivele said. "In this case, Fruitcake has many meanings in this production. It's been fun to see the family dynamics played out in front of us. It's like being at home — very normal, typical. It's heartwarming."

Several new Theatre Troupe actors are featured in the play, and Canivele said they're "fitting into the groove very naturally." The 20-member cast includes 12 children.

"It's fun to watch the younger actors guide them and offer advice, especially when they're under 10 and guiding an adult!" Carnivele said.

Tickets for the show are $14 for adults, $12 for senior citizens and students, and $10 for children who are 12 years old or younger.

The cast includes Orland Park residents Annie Burns, Sarah Callis, Krystle Cousins, Etienne Fellmann, Amy Henrichs, Samantha Manning, Declan Mulvey, Saoirse Redmond, Bryan Riess, Makayla Spatz, Naomi Turk, Marc and Will Vajarsky; Orland Hills residents Hannah Belair and Michelle Belair; Midlothian resident Brett Gustafson; Homer Glen resident Suzanne Hamilton; Mokena resident Carli Mendoza; Palos Park resident Zoe Touloupakis; and New Lenox resident Ryan Valecek.

Those with questions should call 708-403-7275.

Image courtesy of Orland Park Theatre Troupe.