When Christmas Left Rattler Canyon

By Dean Belanger

Black Box Theatre - Casa Grande Arizona

directed by Stacey Seaman

The cast features Ralph Swain (Stu Rickitee), Karen Hindhede (Margo), Tiffany McQueen (Jonnie), Emily Vacca (Billie), Rod Gipson (Mayor Clive Plumnut), Roberta Doerges (Sissy Plumnut), Ken Ferguson (Big Bad Ben), Mary Dunley (Susie), Ken Kermode (Diamond Dan), MJ Monreal (Joey), Jamee Brooks (Marie), Jean Kolder (Rexella Ringo), Alice Rebecchi (Isabella Ringo), Keith Seaman (Old Man Harper), Kasie Mulvihill (Kookie), Donna Seaman (School Marm), and Nancy Hughes (Piano Player).

The production team includes lighting design by Lorie Sinclair, sound design by Ethan Foss

It’s a sad day in Rattler Canyon when the mayor gambles away the town to Big Bad Ben, the meanest guy in the west.  What’s worse is that Big Bad Ben hates Christmas, so he cancels it!  It looks like Diamond Dan could be the town’s only hope, but he’s lost his gumption ever since a run-in with the “pure evil” Ringo Sisters — Isabella and Rexella.  When Johnny, the owner of the saloon, asks for a sign from the good Lord to show that they should fight to get Christmas back, a young couple walks in.  Joey and Marie, who is clearly pregnant, are looking for a place to stay for the night, but he doesn’t have a vacancy, so he directs them to the shed out back.  Starting to sound familiar?  Well, you’re right!  This Christmas story sheds light on the miracle of Christ’s birth, wrapped up in a lighthearted story about bad guys changing their ways and a long-lost family who find one another.  Just when it seems Christmas, the town and Diamond Dan’s life are all about to go down the drain, a miracle happens — a baby enters the world, just when he’s needed most.  Come see how the folks of Rattler Canyon were saved one fateful Christmas!