A! Magazine for the Arts

Barter cancels Christmas show, "The Santaland Diaries"

September 14, 2015

ABINGDON, Va.- After several months of searching for an alternate venue to house the Christmas production "The Santaland Diaries," Barter Theatre management announces the cancellation of this production.

The Tent on Barter Square was originally scheduled to host the performances of "The Santaland Diaries" this Christmas season. Due to changes in government regulations, The Tent is scheduled to be taken down for the season in October.

When Barter's leadership received the news, the search began immediately for another venue that would be appropriate to house the production given the timeframe, hours of use, and number of performances. The leadership team for Barter Theatre has been unable to secure a space suitable which would be available for the length of time necessary.

Producing Artistic Director Richard Rose said, "The decision to cancel this production was not an easy one. We had hoped to find another location to host this unique holiday show. We know audience members were looking forward to seeing David Sedaris' work here."

This cancellation has brought about other changes in the remaining two Christmas shows. Resident Actress Hannah Ingram was directing "The Santaland Diaries," but will now be directing "Jacob Marley's Christmas Carol." Resident Actor Nicholas Piper, who would've been featured in "The Santaland Diaries," will now appear in "Miracle on 34th Street".

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