Back by popular demand, the Bartlesville Public Library is teaming up with Children’s Musical Theatre to host “One Book, One Bartlesville” — a communitywide program designed to unite and engage the community by reading the same book at the same time.
The selected title this year is “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever,” by Barbara Robinson. The event will be held Oct. 22 through Dec. 2.
Described as “hilarious” and “poignant,” the story follows the six Herdman children as they take over the annual Christmas pageant.
“It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season,” said interim Library Director Shellie McGill.
The One Book, One Bartlesville program series is designed for the entire family. Weekly events will be held on Saturdays or Sundays at 2 p.m. in the upstairs meeting room of the Library.
Events planned include:
- Oct. 22 — Book discussion and applesauce cake
- Oct. 28 — Christmas crafts and filming kids’ reviews of the book
- Nov. 5 — Readers Theatre with CMT cast members
- Nov. 11 — “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” movie presentation
- Nov. 19 — The Best Christmas Party Ever
The program finale will be the Children’s Musical Theatre’s performances at Grace Community Church, 1500 King Drive in Bartlesville.
“We are excited about Children’s Musical Theatre’s first ever fall production — a full-length play with music,” said CMT Director Melinda Bellatti. “This is a heartwarming holiday story that appeals to all ages. We are thrilled to share it with the community.”
Performances are set for 7 p.m. on Nov. 30 and Dec. 1, and at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Dec. 2.
“The response to the fall production was overwhelming,” said Bellatti. “Due to the tremendous response, the play is double cast. This means two actors were cast in each role, so we have two different casts each performing two performances.”
“We are very excited to partner with the Children’s Musical Theatre for this community event,” McGill said. “We encourage everyone to participate.”
Books are available at the Library and performance tickets can be purchased by calling the Children’s Musical Theatre Office at 918-336-0558 or visit their website at www.cmtonstage.com.