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To tell you the truth, I’ve never read the book. I will admit it. My experience with this show came from watching the 1983 film while I was in elementary school and taking a field trip to see the play at The Royal many, many, years ago.  There is little shame in my admission because I feel that this story is universal. Many stories from around the world feature a character described as rough or unseemly, that is cast out, uncared for, but when finally accepted by the right person or group, blossoms into the person that everyone else thought he or she could never become.  The Herdmans exemplify the part of every human that is callous, selfish, and otherwise undesirable.  Only through Mrs. Bradley’s forced acceptance of the Herdmans into the Christmas pageant do we, the audience, as well as the other characters in the play, realize their potential for compassion and kindness. 

          How often do we forget that others need the kind of compassion that was not shown to the Herdmans? When Charlie opens his big fat mouth about Sunday school treats, a new world is opened to the Herdmans.  What they learn at the church changes them and if it weren’t for Charlie’s uncharacteristic remarks that day, everything would have gone on as it had before.  Everyone, apart from the Herdmans, seems to know that the Christmas season is about giving, but it seems that not many people remember that giving their love and patience during the season is just as important. The same could be said for the real world.  I believe that this reason is why the Royal Players have produced this play so many times.  People are often forgetful and need a reminder.  I know I frequently do. This touching message, as well as the great humor throughout the show, has made me so grateful that I’ve been a part of this production.  I hope that this show makes you laugh as much as I have, touches you as it has touched me, and also gives you as much to think about.

~Hillary Bell

Director