Head North for Holiday Laughs: "A Tuna Christmas" at Kechi Playhouse

Image courtesy of Kechi Playhouse

The beloved theatre extends its 39th season with this uproarious comedy, featuring three actors playing over 20 colorful characters!

Kechi Playhouse typically closes its season and its doors in October. The many fans of its live theatre productions eagerly await its return in May.

But this year, there's a special treat in store. Or rather, on stage! Kechi Playhouse owner and producer Misty Maynard has extended the 39th season with "A Tuna Christmas" by Jaston Williams, Joe Sears and Ed Howard. The irreverent holiday comedy runs December 1–19.

This production is not only a gift for regular Kechi Playhouse theatregoers, but an opportunity for a whole new audience to discover this gem located minutes north of Wichita.

"This show is a homecoming of sorts," said co-director Heather Johnson. "Misty [Maynard] has given all of us some of our best opportunities over the years. It's a labor of love and a laugh riot when the world needs it most. Whether you're a theatre regular or you're just looking for something fun to do over the holidays—if you love to laugh, you'll love this show."

It's Christmastime in tiny Tuna, Texas, and local radio station personalities Thurston Wheelis and Arles Struvie are busy reporting on the various Yuletide activities. There's hot competition in the annual lawn display contest, and a local production of "A Christmas Carol" is teetering on the edge of disaster. Many Tuna denizens join in the holiday fun, including the controversial theatre director, the chain smoking used gun shop owner and the flirtatious Tastee Kreme waitresses.

If this sounds like a large cast holiday production, here's the twist—all 22 colorful characters in "A Tuna Christmas" are played by three talented actors! Comedic powerhouses Lyle Valentine, Viviano Legorreta and Andrew Johnson are up to the challenge. The production is directed by Misty Maynard and Heather Johnson, featuring props by Renee Tanner and costumes by Christy Railsback.

"This is a dream cast for a hilarious show," said Heather Johnson. "Only a grinch would miss it!"

The Details

Performances are at 8 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays, with Sunday matinees at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $22 and include a holiday treat! Seating is general admission. Call for reservations: (316) 744-2152.

Kechi Playhouse is located at 100 E. Kechi Road (intersection of North Oliver & 61st Street).