A recent musical production of A Christmas Carol offered by members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Oshawa, Ontario, entertained audiences while helping those in need.
About fifteen hundred audience members ushered in the Christmas season by donating food items for the needy as admission to the production. Attendees raised 2450 pounds of food over the course of six shows for Feed the Need in Durham, a distribution centre which supports 48 emergency food providers in the Durham Region.
Julien LeBourdais, executive director of Feed the Need in Durham said, "We are delighted to be the recipient of so much food. ...we are very much impressed." LeBourdais hoped one food barrel would be filled and was overwhelmed when the Church presented him with eight. He remarked, "Nobody has ever done that after one event."
Based on the story written by Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol tells the tale of the sour and stingy Ebeneezer Scrooge and his spiritual transformation after he is visited by Jacob Marley, and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. Cast members had been singing Christmas carols for months, having begun rehearsals last summer.
"The performance itself was unbelievable," continued LeBourdais. "I was blown away. It was just such a fantastic performance. The enthusiasm of everybody in the cast ... I am just at a loss for words."
Members of The Church of Jesus Christ are regularly given opportunities to participate in musical and cultural art activities to develop their talents, nurturing creativity, confidence, communication, and co-operation. Performances in dance, music, and drama often include the celebration or portrayal of historical and spiritual events.
Cast member and food drive co-ordinator Connie Maglioli said it was a phenomenal experience and it was successful in getting everyone into the spirit of Christmas. "I love it. ... We get to think about those in need and to carry that spirit with us."
- A Christmas Carol Musical Production Oshawa Ontario
- A Christmas Carol Food Drive for Feed the Need in Durham
- Oshawa Production of A Christmas Carol - Cast
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At the final performance, LeBourdais thanked the Church and audience members from the community. "We very much appreciate the food - it will be given to immediately to people who need it - there are so many people in Durham Region who don't have enough to eat." He accepted the donations adding, "We thank all of you so much. All of it will be put to very good use."
Church President Thomas S. Monson said that the story of A Christmas Carol "...brings out the best within human nature. It gives hope. It motivates change. We can turn from the paths which would lead us down and, with a song in our hearts, follow a star and walk toward the light."