Spreading Christmas joy is rewarding

Christmas time is here, and while we might complain about not having a long enough break, some kids don't even have the luxury to complain. There are kids who don't have a home or are so poor they wouldn't even think of asking for something for Christmas.

But we all deserve something during the holidays.  

So on Saturday, Dec. 3, the Harvester Theatre Company held two special performances for the Rainbow Days group, which brought in children from broken homes so they, too, could have a little Christmas joy.

I was in the play, and the experience was amazing.

The first show began at 10 a.m. I had my alarm set for 7, but I slept through it. I didn't arrive at the performance hall until ten on the money.

I play an old person in the show, so I always have old man make-up on. Since I arrived late, I needed to do it myself. I ended up putting lipstick on my face and, in general, looking silly. I was saved by Katie Bee, and by the show being pushed back 30 minutes.

When I went on, I was able to finally get a good look at the crowd. The rows were full.

The play went off without a hitch. After the show, all the actors could go out into the lobby, in character, and greet the attendees. There I saw all the smiles on the children's' faces. They were ecstatic that they got to see a live play rather than just watch a movie.

In the shop, just behind the theater, Rainbow Days had a Santa Claus so all the children could sit on his lap and receive a gift.

I am very happy that we were able to take part in providing this service. For many of the children, Christmas is a time to think about all that they don't have. About how things would be different if they were Rockefeller rich.

Hopefully we were able to give them some joy this holiday season.