The Best (?) Non-Denominational Holiday Concert Ever!

Rem Lezar Theatre—Tom Hendry Warehouse

I know some people complain about the drive to get away from “Christmas” and be more inclusive. As a non-Christian growing up, I (mandatorily) played parts in school plays. While the Christian children immediately understood what was expected of them, I didn’t have a clue who Joseph was and what were the three wise guys? Kids are cruel, which made me the victim of ridicule because of my ignorance.

I’m happy to see non-denominational celebrations because children don’t deserve the treatment I received—especially when our population continues to get more diverse and there are more non-Christian people and children.

I expected this play to hit home with me and at first, I saw exactly the resistance behind change, and how so many people really hate change. I embrace change, when change is for the better, but change for change’s sake? That’s something different entirely.

Gradually, the play evolves away from being about the holiday presentation and towards an homage to the profession and duties of teachers—and teachers deserve all the lauding.

When the big moment finally comes and the holiday show goes live, it all goes off the rails and I think I’m still catching my breath from laughing so hard! Today’s audience had lots of children and youths and they all seemed have a wonderful time—and as an adult, so did I!

Tip: some of the voices are a bit subdued and hard to hear when the actors face away from you. Grab a seat closer to the front if you can.

Ray Yuen