Christmas comes early to the Eastern Sierra

For the first time since 2005, the Theatre of Note from Los Angeles will bring the satirical musical “A Mulholland Christmas Carol” to the Owens Valley this weekend at Bishop Union High School on Saturday, Nov. 17 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 18 at 2 p.m. The show tells the story of the birth of Los Angeles by casting water baron William Mulholland as Scrooge. “A Christmas Carol” presents a musical rendition of the Los Angeles water wars with Owens Valley mixing harmonies, history and humor in an acoustical, bluegrass take.

Many historical characters appear during the show. Mulholland sings of his love for the Los Angeles River and the building of the St. Francis Dam. The original aria sung when Owens Valley water arrived in the San Fernando Valley is heard in full operatic fashion. The tragedy of that dam’s collapse will take place right on stage. Teddy Roosevelt, Fred Eaton, J.B. Lippincott, John Westley Powell and Mary Austin – other players in the water story – also make appearances. But the most moving roles are played by the ‘Owens Valley Folk’ as they sing in their innocence while their lives are changed forever. At the sold-out show in 2005, Owens Valley audiences understood every detail of the water history.

This year’s show is hosted by Friends of the Inyo and the Theatre of Note with generous support from the Metabolic Studio and Lauren Bon. It is hoped that everyone – student and teachers, young and old, locals and visitors alike – will come enjoy the shows. The Sunday matinee is followed by a Q&A with the director, playwright, and actors.

Tickets $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors available at the door or in advance online at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/293080.

For ticket questions please contact Mike Prather: 760.876.5807 or mprather@lonepinetv.com