The famous Farleys are celebrating Christmas

OREM — If you think you've seen the "Farley Family Xmas," you really haven't.

According to James Arrington, creator of this one-man family, the Christmas show is a cast of familiar characters with a whole lot of improv each night. It's like spending a different Christmas with the gang each time you see the show.

Arrington, an assistant professor in the Department of Theatrical Arts for Stage and Screen at Utah Valley State College, created the Farley family more than 20 years ago with the popular Farley Family Reunion. The Christmas show seemed to follow naturally with so many characters and a plethora of holiday foibles and guffaws to play on.

"Life changes and so does the show," Arrington said. "The reason it's called the 'Farley Family Xmas' is because it's the Farleys vs. Christmas, and luckily Christmas wins by a hair."

For the past 10 years audiences have seen Arrington jingle jangle and "Ho, Ho, Ho" his way into their hearts with memorable characters such as Aunt Beatrice, the homemaking maven that can turn your pantyhose into precious yuletide decor and offers other helpful craft ideas. Then there's the sisters-in-law, Veda and Theta, who try to charm audiences with their more-than-unique organ recital.

Other familiar characters include Uncle Heber, the eternal master of ceremonies; Aunt Viola, and then, of course, there's all the other members of the family, generally known as the audience.

Those attending this cavalcade of Christmas comedy are invited to dress for the season and plan on participating in the performance.

"This is a great opportunity for people to laugh and watch me play the part of those funny family members we all have," Arrington said. "Laughter never felt so good. This show is for people of all ages, from 6 to 90."

If you go

What: "Farley Family Xmas"

When: Dec. 10, 12, 15, 16 and 17 at 7:30 p.m.

Where: Ragan Theater, Sorensen Center, Utah Valley State College Orem campus

How much: $10 general admission, $6 students, $8 children and seniors

Phone: Call 863-8797

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E-mail: pugmire@desnews.com