Against a backdrop of brightly lit trees, wreaths and garland and magnificent red draping, the final performance of the 2007 season takes to the stage at the Opera House in Boothbay Harbor on Saturday, December 22. The Holiday Show and Carol Sing-Along has been described as the Boothbay region's version of the old "Bing Crosby Christmas specials." With musicians and dancers and singers and an appearance by Ebenezer Scrooge and Jacob Marley, it promises to include a bit of holiday magic for everyone.

The show gets underway at 7:30 p.m. with the historic bar upstairs opening at 6 p.m. in time for show goers to grab a cup of Christmas cheer in advance of the performances. In the spirit of the season, the Holiday Show is a free event open to all ages. Donations for the Opera House Heating Fund will be happily accepted.

Local pianist Kevin Kiley will be joined on stage by vocalists Carl Johanson, John Adams, Matthew Ryder and Nancy Grace among others. Classical guitarist Jeff Rojo, dancer Caitlin Brackett and violinist Maddie Chamberlin will bring their talents to the stage. Having just stepped off the stage at the Boothbay Playhouse, Ebenezer and Marley, played by Kit Sherrill and Paul Noah, will bring more of the spirit of Christmas to the old Opera House. The Holiday Show is intended to share the joy of the season and the talents of the community with all. Individuals interested in singing or performing may contact show director, Kevin Kiley, by leaving a message at the Opera House at 633-6855.

Audience members are invited to come dressed in the spirit of the season and ready to sing a carol or two as the Opera House closes out the 2007 season and looks towards the new year. Shows scheduled for the coming winter months include the Celtic rock group Enter the Haggis on January 5, Irish fiddle champion Liz Carroll & John Doyle on January 19, a Mardi Gras Cajun Night with JimmyJo & the Jumbol'Ayuhs on January 26, the spirited Novel Jazz Septet on February 2, the second annual Old Time Opry on January 9, J. Geils & the King of Strings on February 16, the Maine musical, "What is this Life," on March 1 and Grammy winner George Winston solo on piano on March 7.

Gift certificate tickets are currently on sale at the Opera House and may be redeemed for any 2008/2009 Opera House performance. For additional information on the Holiday Show or upcoming performances contact the office Monday-Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. at 633-6855. Visit the Opera House at 86 Townsend Avenue, Boothbay Harbor.