In preparation for the upcoming Christmas season, The Patchwork Dance Company (PDC) will present its annual performance of "Christopher's Christmas" this weekend at Saint Mary's College.
"Christopher's Christmas" is a dance performance open to the public that is presented each year at the College's O'Laughlin Auditorium.
When the performance was written 27 years ago, it was first held in at the College, Jennifer Roberts, assistant director of external events, said.
Since that time, she said, it has become a tradition for the dance company to present this show each year for the students, faculty, staff and local community members.
"They come back every year. It's turned into a tradition over the years to be at Saint Mary's," Roberts said.
The performance, she said, tells a story through dance. With costumes and choreography, audience members follow the journey of a young mouse named Christopher as he attempts to rekindle in his great uncle the spirit of Christmas.
For loyal attendees of the show, "Christopher's Christmas" holds a special place in the community during the holiday season.
"I just think one of the things that is unique about it is it was written by and performed by local dancers and performers to the Michiana area," Roberts said. "I think it's just a really fun way to get into the Christmas spirit."
Performers include the Patchwork Dance Company members, PDC II dancers, which include college and high school age dancers and apprentice dancers of the company.
Along with company dancers, open auditions were held for local community members to participate in the program. Adult dancers include instructors from South Bend's Debbie Werbrouck's School of Dance.
According to PDC's Web site, the company is "a regional, non-profit, contemporary company dedicated to enriching audiences through performances and outreach programs. Patchwork performs choreography of both nationally recognized and resident choreographers."
The program will be held in O'Laughlin Auditorium On Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday, at 2 p.m. Tickets are available for purchase at the door and cost $15 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. A free student ticket is available with the purchase of a $15 adult ticket.
