9 holiday-themed shows to open this week

Nine productions with holiday themes are opening this week in the region.

"HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS," an all new Christmas variety revue, opens Friday in Desert Star Dinner Theater, 4861 S. State, Murray, where it continues through Jan. 1 (alternating with performances of another revue, "The Rat Pack Remembered").

The show is written and compiled by Mary Parker Williams, and directed by Scott Holman. The cast includes Spencer Ashby, Justin Berry, Kirstin Kennison-Nagel, Jennifer Nix-Royall, Ally Sweeney, Richy T. Steadman, David Walker and Mary Parker Williams.

Desert Star's Cabaret Theater, located in the same building, is noted for its post-show "olio" revues and owner Mike Todd says this new revue is like several olios packed into one. Musical direction is by Ben Mayfield.

Dates and performance times vary, with several additional shows scheduled closer to Christmas to accommodate work and family parties or other large groups. Admission ranges from $26.99-$29.99, including a buffet meal. Seating for meal service (lunch and dinner) is about one hour prior to curtain time (266-2600). For specific show times, visit the www.desertstar.biz Web site.

"THE FORGOTTEN CAROLS," a theatrical version of Michael McLean's popular concert piece — adapted for the stage by his son, Scott — is returning for a second run, this time as part of Provo Theatre Company's 20th anniversary season. Directed by Bradley Moss, it plays Friday through Dec. 23 in PTC, 105 E. 100 North, Provo.

David Tinney, the company's artistic director, is returning to play the central role of John, with Thomas Every as James, newcomer Korianne Johnson as Constance and Lara Johnson as Lillian. Tinney plans to keep "The Forgotten Carols" as part of the theater's holiday lineup in future seasons as well.

For the holiday season, the production will play most weeknights and weekends, Mondays-Saturdays, at 7:30 p.m. (No performances on Dec. 2-3). Tickets range from $12.50-$15 (379-0600 or www.provotheatrecompany.com).

"THE OTHER WISE MAN is a "play with music," based on Henry VanDyke's classic tale of Artaban, a fourth wise man who searched his entire life for the other three biblical magi and the infant King.

It plays Friday through Dec. 23 in Rodgers Memorial Theatre, 292 E. Pages Lane, Centerville. The cast, directed by Jansen and Joy Davis, includes Nathan Riddle and Treion Muller alternating in the role of Artaban.

Performances are Mondays-Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. Tickets range from $8-$12 (298-1302).