How to go
What: “The Littlest Angel”
Where: Kennedy Union Boll Theatre of the University of Dayton, 300 College Park, Dayton
When: Dec. 4-5; 7:30 p.m. Friday; 3 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday
Cost: $15-$25
Tickets/more info: Call Ticket Center Stage at (937) 228-3630 or go online to www.ticketcenterstage.com.
Dayton Contemporary Dance Company’s holiday presentation of Charles Tazewell’s touching 1946 children’s story “The Littlest Angel” is back by popular demand Dec. 4-5 in the Kennedy Union Boll Theatre of the University of Dayton.
A story of giving and humility, “The Littlest Angel” concerns a 4-year-old boy homesick in heaven who is allowed to return to Earth to retrieve a box he left behind. Meanwhile, God announces Jesus will soon be born in Bethlehem and every angel prepares a gift. The Littlest Angel decides to give Jesus his small box of personal items, but ultimately questions its worth compared to the other gifts. However, God recognizes the inherent value in his gift nonetheless.
“This story speaks to what sacrifice really means at a time of giving,” said choreographer and DCDC associate artistic director Crystal Michelle, a former DCDC company member. “The Littlest Angel is searching his heart for the perfect gift to give the savior upon his arrival. This story addresses sacrificing those things nearest to your heart. It’s not about being able to buy something expensive, the glamour of gift-giving. It’s about the things that matter to you from a point of connection, being human, loving and kind.”
The family-friendly production, which incorporates narration, features traditional holiday tunes along with the music of Bobby McFerrin. This year there will be a special guest appearance by former DCDC dancer Alexis Evans-Krueger as well as members of DCDC2, the company’s repertory-training ensemble. Michelle says audiences will be treated to the same expertise physically and conceptually but with fresh touches.
“We’re really excited to bring the show back because we always felt this presentation could become a holiday tradition for our audience,” Michelle said. “The response last year was great. This year’s production will have the same format but there are portions of the story we weren’t able to tell last year which we will tell this time around. We’re also adding a few special surprises. It’s wonderful to present the show inside Boll Theatre as well due to the excellent intimacy of the space. It also allows the dancers to be closer to the audience. I love the idea of the dancers and audience being so close they’re sharing the same air. “
In light of recent world events, Michelle is confident “The Littlest Angel” will provide an uplifting holiday alternative, as the real meaning of the season becomes paramount within the community.
“At this time of year, when we have so much evil happening in the world, any reminder about what goodness really means is important.”
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