​By Mary Boyle

The New Year is often a time of resolutions, and those resolutions often involve our health.  Health, in all it's forms, is the structure that we need to build our lives on; if it is unstable or weak, all of our other structures become unstable, as well.  Prioritizing our health is one of the best resolutions we can make and, if you're ready to take that step, there are some great resources in Oz run by wonderful ladies who are here to support you on your journey.

The Béne Network

Sisters Cindy Freier Taylor and Kim Freier Schmit are graduates of Port Washington High School and the fifth generation of their family here in Port.  As a financial adviser, Taylor found herself listening to more than just her client's financial concerns.  "When people talk about money, a lot comes up," she said.  She wanted to be able to help more. Over the years, Taylor referred clients to people in the community who had helped her find better overall health, and she realized she was on to something.  Just launched in October, Taylor, along with her sister, spent the past several years vetting and growing a network of professionals to help people with their health, wealth and happiness, from financial advisers to chiropractors and counselors, and put them all in one place, where people who need them can easily find them. Béne means "be well," which is what these two sisters want for others.

Skin Alive

For over 25 years, Gail Lerman of Mequon has been passionate about helping people with one of their most precious assets: their skin.  Staying on top of cutting edge treatments and offering high quality products to her clients, Lerman has not only personally helped people look their best, but she has trained generations of estheticians through the Mequon Thiensville School of Esthetics, which she operates out of Skin Alive.  The school is a win for both students and clients, as students are able to gain real-world experience working on actual clients and clients are able to have treatments done at a greatly reduced cost.  From microdermabrasion to chemical exfoliation and facials to laser skin rejuvenation, Lerman particularly enjoys treating severe acne and similar skin issues.  Helping them to feel good about themselves is the best part of her job. 

Fyndig Salon

A Swedish word that means creative or inventive, Fyndig Salon in Cedarburg is the culmination of nearly 20 years of experience being a stylist and a dream to run a place of her own.  Pamela Schwister of Saukville, along with co-owner and stylist Jessica Keith of Slinger, share a dedication to community and supporting other small, local businesses, which is why you will find local art for sale inside the salon, as well as Java House coffee to drink.  Moreover, Schwister wanted to recreate what we think a salon is supposed to be.  Besides employing brilliant stylists, Fyndig has their own branded products created out of years of testing what works but, far from being austere and over-priced, the salon feels comfortable and the products, because they cut the middle man, are affordable.  A salon for everyone, where there's a warm and inviting community and where the stylists don't make you beautiful, they just help show you what you what was already there. If you're thinking of a new look in this new year, these are the people to see.

Dirty Feet Yoga

Kimberly Manthey of Cedarburg has been teaching yoga for over 20 years to all ages and abilities.  A year ago, she opened her own studio in Cedarburg where, along with several other yogis, she offers a variety of classes for absolute beginners all the way to yoga regulars.  "There are many reasons to practice yoga, from physical well-being to mental clarity," Manthey said.  "The practice of yoga is about mind, body, and presence. Our yoga practice allows us to center and focus which allows us to sharpen our minds. While the stretching and movement are great for helping us become more limber and toned, it is the entire practice that helps our whole being."

​What I love about each of these women is their commitment to community and their desire to help others.  While this may not be your year to start a yoga class or reinvent your look, perhaps this is your year to follow your dream.  If they can't help you with that, perhaps they can at least inspire you to listen to the little voice in your soul and know that you can do it, too.  

​Happy New Year, everyone.

By Mary Boyle

Lisa Liljegren of Mequon loves to go fishing, but she didn't grow up doing it.  In fact, the hobby is quite new to her, and it wasn't something she was introduced to by her husband, son, or even a group of friends.  Not only that, she doesn't go fishing on charter boats on Lake Michigan or on inland lakes or rivers up north.  Nope.  Her favorite spots are in and around the City of Milwaukee and her most common companion is a man she happened to meet while observing a relatively unknown but dedicated group of people who fish in the city.  Her experience was more than just learning a new hobby; it inspired her to write a book called Cast: The True Story of a Mom who Learned to Embrace the Unknown through Urban Fishing. 

Practically a memoir, Liljegren's journey into the secret world of urban fishing began while waiting for her son during his football league practices in Milwaukee.  Having once worked for the Milwaukee County Parks system, Liljegren had already developed a love affair with the City's urban natural areas, but after she stumbled across a large group of people fishing at the Kletsch Park dam, watching them became her regular activity.  Finally, she decided she wanted in.

Not wanting to appear completely inept, she contacted a park maintenance man who runs a fishing tournament at the Washington Park Lagoon to take her out and show her the ropes.  Her husband, having meant to take their son fishing someday, had some sparse gear in the garage, so she grabbed what was there and got started.  After a few embarrassing trips on her own, Liljegren met Angel on one of her expeditions, who has become a mentor and regular fishing partner.  The 6th St. Viaduct near Harley is one of their favorite spots, and they've attracted the curiosity of the workers there, who often check in with them to see what's biting.

Liljegren says she has never felt in danger while on her urban fishing expeditions, "...but I did feel out of my element," which helped her to grow, not just as a fishermen, but as person.  "It's amazing what you begin to talk about while waiting for the fish to bite.  People would be surprised at what they'll learn about themselves and others."  Part of what Liljegren learned was that, despite the variety of backgrounds and economic status represented at the fishing spots, once people begin to connect, they have a lot in common.  "We all have the same problems."  

Pre-orders of Liljegren's book, which is scheduled to be launched this April, are being sold now, and there are special fundraising options through Indiegogo which will help get the book published, including:

• Personal, autographed copies of Cast
• Your name added to the acknowledgements page
• Early access to the Cast manuscript
• A vote in the final cover design 
• Feedback rights 
• A private urban fishing outing

If you have a local book lover in your life, this could be a very unique gift!  To preorder your copy or learn more about the story of  Cast, go to:
 https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/cast-by-lisa-liljegren

*Edited from 2017

​By Mary Boyle

Maybe you were busy and the time just got away from you.  Maybe you have people in your life that are impossible to buy for.  Maybe you'd rather sew your head to the living room carpet than slog through a crowded mall or big-box store.  I feel you, and I'm here to help.  The conventional method of holiday shopping is so ingrained in us, it's easy to overlook the many treasures we have right in our own community.  Supporting local businesses and organizations is the gift that keeps on giving; the money you spend at these places not only stays in our community, but oftentimes helps to support important organizations that make Ozaukee and the greater Ozaukee area so wonderful.  Read on, and find the perfect gifts for everyone on your list!

For the Kids (and Kids at Heart)

Hands down, my favorite place to buy toys in Ozaukee County is the Cedarburg Toy Co.  Owners, Zach and Natasha Loos, will not only assist you in finding the right gift, they'll wrap it for you.  They are also experts at covert operations, if you happen to actually have your children with you and need to shop.  Wink, nudge, or pass them a note, and they'll have all the presents wrapped and ready for later pick up,  or whatever other crazy antics you can think of.  CTC truly has gifts for all ages, from blocks and rattles to puzzles and books, and things you didn't even know existed!  Don't miss this magical little store in the heart of downtown Cedarburg.

Toys are wonderful, of course, but another way to give a gift that isn't "stuff" is to give an experience.  How about tickets to the Rivoli and dinner at The Chocolate Factory?  What about a day at the Port Exploreum and a treat at the Chocolate Chisel?  How about a hike at Harrington after breakfast at Hobo's?  Or, a few hours at Just 4 Fun and a treat at Sweet Trio?  Time spent together is one of the best gifts you can possibly give.

For the Foodies

We are so lucky in Oz to have excellent CSA's (Community Supported Agriculture), and purchasing a share for the Foodie in your life not only makes a good gift, but you're supporting the local food culture of Oz!  Wellspring in Newburg is the longest running CSA in Wisconsin.  ​Rare Earth Farm and Willoway Farm in Belgium are two other great CSA's.  Each farm offers different choices for shares, so look to see which is the best fit, but they are all wonderfully dedicated to growing healthy, local food.  We are also lucky to have a cooperative like Outpost in Mequon.  An Outpost membership is an excellent gift for the foodie in your life (and you'll find all kinds of other gift ideas in the store, as well!).  In Grafton, try Slow Pokes Local Food, which is especially great for those struggling with gluten-intolerance or other food issues.

Then again, Oz is home to some really great restaurants, and a special dinner out could be a lovely gift.  Try the Hundred Mile House, Fork & Tap, or Twisted Willow in Port, Brandywine, The Stilt House, or The Farmstead in Cedarburg, or the cheel in Thiensville.

For the Nature Lovers

Oz is home to two amazing nature preserves:  Riveredge in Newburg in the north and Mequon Nature Preserve in the south.  Memberships to both offer access to trails and programming, but also help support environmental restoration and education in Oz.  Besides memberships, Riveredge has a Visitor's Center full of great gifts for the Outdoorsy person in your life, including the syrup they make onsite each spring.

For the Art Lovers

The art community is strong in Oz, and there are a variety of places where original artwork of all kinds can be purchased.  In Cedarburg, try the Cedarburg Art Museum, Cedarburg Cultural Center,  or the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts & Fiber Arts gift shops, but memberships to these organizations also make great gifts. In downtown Cedarburg, you can find local art in many of the gift shops, including Bohemia, the Pink Llama Gallery, and within the Shops of Cedar Creek Settlement.  In Grafton, look no further than the NSAA Arts Mill, where a wide variety of treasures await.  

For the Coffee Lovers

If there is one thing the Land of Oz has aplenty, it's good coffee shops.  Gift Certificates are great, of course, but most also offer t-shirts, mugs, and other fun items to show your coffee shop pride.  In Port, there's Java Dock Cafe and Smith Bros. Coffee House; in Grafton, we have AM Coffee, NSeven, and Colectivo (also in Mequon); in Cedarburg, there's the Cedarburg Coffee Roastery and Java House.  You can find a Fiddleheads in Cedarburg, Grafton, Thiensville, and Mequon.  There is no lack of caffeine in Oz, people.

For the Pet Lovers (and pets!!)

Oz is home to a bounty of wonderful, independent and local places to shop for the pet or pet lover in your life!  In Port Washington, check out One Wag on the corner of Franklin and Jackson St. downtown, which specializes in natural food and nutritional support for your pets.  In Saukville, there's Dawgs In Motion, which has day camp, training classes, a pool, a shop, grooming and more, or Pet Supply Port, which has been in Oz for over 25 years.  In Mequon, try the Feed Bag, which also offers a pool and grooming, as well as a selection for pets beyond dogs and cats.  In Cedarburg, try Landmark Supply, which has been serving the critters of Oz for over 150 years!

For the Beer & Wine Lovers 

Oz is home to a number of breweries, and there are a few winery options, as well.  In Cedarburg, of course, there is the award-winning Cedar Creek Winery and Chiselled Grape Winery, but Cedarburg has two breweries, as well: Rebellion Brewing and The Fermentorium.  In Port Washington, try Inventors Brewpub or Vines to Cellar.  In Grafton, Sahale Ale Works is a recent arrival, while Foxtown Brewing in Mequon is brand new.


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​For those who love to wander through Gift Shops and be inspired...

Sometimes, you just want to wander around and see what might jump out at you, or have someone in the know who has the time to help you find the perfect gift.  If that's you, you could just start at one end of downtown Cedarburg and finish at the other, but Cedarburg isn't your only game!  In Port Washington, try Pear & Simple, Eclectic Avenue, Lakeside Music & Naturals (which has all types of goodies for the musicians in your life, too), The Shoppes of Port Washington, or the new Guenther House Collective (Pretty soon, you'll be able to shop from one end of downtown Port to the next, too).

​The important thing to remember about gift giving, especially this time of year, is not to buy stuff just to buy stuff.  Slow down, really be present with people, and when you do want to give something, consider giving a gift that gives back to our community.  Happy Holidays, everyone.

By Mary Boyle

Now in their fourth season, Voices Found Repertory, a small theatre company working primarily out of Milwaukee's Underground Collaborative in the basement of the former Grand Avenue Mall,  has demonstrated a passion for performing the classics—particularly Shakespeare.  After a rather bloody staging of the Bard's Titus Andronicus last season, they return with a streamlined version of the epic HENRY V, complete with intense battle scenes and a rather delightful twist to a well-told tale.

Henry V, perhaps the best known of Shakespeare's histories, is of course the story of the beloved English King's rise to the throne and his quest to conquer France after being assured he is the rightful heir to the throne, which he succeeded at against ridiculous odds in the famed Battle of Agincourt in 1415.  The final play in what is known as the tetralogy, which begins with  Richard II, Henry IV, Part I, and Henry IV, Part II, Henry V contains some of the Bard's most memorable and quoted lines, from "O, for a muse of fire" to "Once more into the breach, dear friends," and the famed St. Crispin's Day speech: "We few, we happy few, we band of brothers."  

VFR's version, directed by Alec Lachman, is radically cut to fit into a fast and furious 90 minutes which, in my humble opinion, is not enough time to do this play justice.  We never see the end of the drunken knight, Falstaff, nor do we get to meet the unintelligible Scotsman, Captain Jamy, or his counterpart, the Irishman Captain Macmorris, which is one of my favorite bits in the play.  I was not crazy about the Chorus being a role shared by the entire cast and some of the editing made for a bit of choppiness in the story.

On the other hand, the fight scenes are brutal and well-done and I love how the French are constantly smoking and supremely arrogant. Rebekah Farr's Dauphin in the "horse" scene is exceptionally well-played.  My absolute favorite part, however, was VFR's version of the English lesson scene between the French Princess, Katherine (Caroline Fossum) and Alice, her servant.  Thomas Sebald, who also played the role of the Welsh Captain, Fluellen, was cast in the role of Alice, which made for a delightfully different and hysterical scene that made me forgive any other trespasses.  Also of note: A.J. Magoon as the Archbishop of Canterbury and Andy Montano as Bardolph.  

Voices Found Repertory's HENRY V runs through Sunday, December 15th at the Underground Collaborative, located in the lower level of the former Grand Avenue Mall at 161 W. Wisconsin Ave. in downtown Milwaukee.  Tickets are only $15 and may be purchased online at https://www.voicesfoundrep.com/ or at the box office.

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By Mary Boyle

When thinking of Shakespeare's commonly produced plays, The Winter's Tale is not among them—not because it isn't good, mind you, but because it is very difficult to get right.  Considered one of the "problem plays," this story is not quite a drama, romance, or comedy, but all three.  Fortunately, Milwaukee's First Stage Young Company, a group of high school-aged students who receive college-level training and produce two plays each season at the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center, was up to the task.

Directed by Milwaukee's own Marcella Kearns, The Winter's Tale is the story of two kings, Leontes (Mathilde Prosen-Oldani), King of Sicily, and Polixenes (Kathleen Lepianka), King of Bohemia, who have been friends since infancy.  After Leontes' queen, Hermione (Morgan McKinnis), is able to convince Polixenes to extend his visit to their kingdom, Leontes is suddenly certain that his wife is not only having an affair with Polixenes, but that the child she is carrying belongs to Polixenes, as well.  Leontes orders his cup bearer, Camillo (Kyra Mathias), to poison his friend, but Camillo warns Polixenes, instead, and they flee together.  Assured that his queen, best friend, and most trusted servant were all in league against him to take his crown, Leontes publicly accuses Hermione of adultery and banishes her to prison, barring her from seeing their young son, Prince Mamillius (Emily Harris), who promptly falls ill.  To convince his servants, who refuse to believe that Hermione is guilty, Leontes sends two of his lords to the Oracle at Delphos to assure all that even the god Apollo is on his side. 

The shock of her betrayal causes Hermione to give birth early to a daughter.  Paulina (Molly Boyle), a respected servant and physician in the court, confronts Leontes, begging him to look at his newborn daughter and see that she is, indeed, his, but Leontes orders the baby to be burned.  Lord Antigonus (Selma Rivera), Paulina's husband, intervenes and Leontes relents, but instead orders Antigonus to take the baby outside of their kingdom and leave it in the wild to fate.  While Antigonus and the baby sail away on a ship, Hermione is forced to stand trial, where she learns the fate of her newborn.  Proclaiming her innocence, Hermione leaves her fate to Apollo.  The proclamation from the Oracle is read, pronouncing Hermoine, Polixenes, and Camillo innocent, the baby legitimate, and Leontes a jealous tyrant.  Moreover, the Oracle predicts that the kingdom will remain heir-less until the lost child is found.  Refusing to believe he was wrong, Leontes tears up the proclamation; immediately, a servant runs in to announce that Mamillius is dead, causing the queen to faint.  Leontes realizes, too late, that he was wrong and begs Apollo for forgiveness, only to suffer the fury of Paulina, who informs him that his beloved and innocent queen is dead.  Meanwhile, Antigonus and the baby arrive on the banks of Bohemia in a storm, where Antigonus is attacked by a bear while the ship goes down in the sea.  The baby, however, is discovered by an old shepherd (Gabriela Bastardo) and his son (Molly McVey), who take her up and raise her as their own.

Fast-forward sixteen years later: Leontes continues to weep daily on the grave of his queen and son and Camillo remains in Bohemia in service to Polixenes.  The baby, who was named Perdita (Kate Ketelhohn), has grown into a rare beauty who attracts the attention of Polixenes' son, Prince Florizel (Costello Mylott), but the King refuses to allow his son to wed a mere shepherdess, no matter how beautiful she is or how in love they are, and threatens Perdita with death should she come near the Prince.  Willing to renounce his inheritance for love, Florizel plans to flee the country with Perdita, but Camillo sees his chance to help the young prince, reunite the two kings, and return to his homeland with one brilliant plan.  Fearing the wrath of King Polixenes, the shepherd and his son, with the help of a "courtier" named Autolycus (Emily Harris), decide to go to the King and tell him the secrets of Perdita's origin to avoid sharing her fate.  Does Florizel get the girl? Will the Kingdom of Sicily be restored?  I'm afraid you'll have to watch and see.

Several of the actors hail from Ozaukee, including Morgan McKinnis and Kathleen Lepianka from Grafton, Kate Ketelhohn from Cedarburg, and Molly Boyle from Port Washington.  Boyle, Ketelhohn, and Lepianka were cast together two seasons ago in the YC performance of Henry V; last season, Boyle and Lepianka performed in the World Premiere of Girls in the Boat, also directed by Kearns, and McKinnis, Boyle, and Ketelhohn were cast together in another of Shakespeare's works, As You Like It.  Ketelhohn, Boyle, and McKinnis also had the honor of competing with Young Company's Team Yorick at the Utah Shakespeare Festival this past October, where the team brought home second place in Duo/Trio scenes, third place in Monologues, first place in Ensemble Scene, and first place overall in their division. 

I've said it before and I'll say it again:  the Young Company is one of the best-kept theatre secrets in Milwaukee.  I have yet to see a YC show where these young performers don't blow me away; the acting is professional-quality for an incredibly reasonable price, at just $14 per ticket.  With a sparse set, simple white costumes and hardly any props, this group of 14 high school students (including Trevor Schmitt-Ernst and Gwynyth Martin) bring this complex tale—first an intense emotional drama that becomes, unbelievably, a comedy—to life on the stage.  With each year in the Company, the actors show marked improvement; Mathilde Prosen-Oldani and Emily Harris, who are Seniors, deliver masterful performances.  Best for audiences ages 13 and up, there are limited chances to see this rare production; don't miss yours.

THE WINTER'S TALE runs through Sunday, December 15th at the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center, located at 325 W. Walnut St. in downtown Milwaukee.  Tickets are $14 and available online at www.firststage.org, through the First Stage Box Office at (414) 267-2961, or at the door prior to the performance. Performance run-time is approximately two hours and fifteen minutes, including intermission. Suggested for families with young people ages 13+.

About First Stage
First Stage is one of the nation’s leading theaters for young people and families. First Stage touches hearts, engages minds and transforms lives by creating extraordinary theater experiences through professional theater productions that inspire, enlighten and entertain. Its Theater Academy, the nation’s largest high-impact theater training program for young people, fosters life skills through stage skills and serves nearly 2,000 students each year. As Wisconsin’s leader in arts-integrated education in schools, First Stage’s dynamic Theater in Education programs promote literacy, character building and experiential learning throughout the curriculum, serving over 20,000 students each year. First Stage was selected to participate in the Partners in Education program of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts (2012), and was the recipient of the Milwaukee Business Journal’s Eureka Award, recognizing creativity and innovation in business, education and the arts for its Next Steps program for students on the autism spectrum (2013, 2015). First Stage is a member of TYA/USA, the American Alliance for Theatre and Education, the Wisconsin Alliance for Arts Education, Milwaukee Arts Partners and is a cornerstone member of the United Performing Arts Fund (UPAF). www.firststage.org.

 

By Mary Boyle

Fans of Will Ferrell and Christmas movies likely recall the 2003 film Elf, starring Ferrell as Buddy the Elf, who lives in Christmas Town at the North Pole.  Much like Herbie in the animated television classic, Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Buddy has never felt that he quite fit in: he can't make toys as well as the other elves, and he is so much bigger than any of them.  Finally, Santa tells Buddy the truth:  he is not an elf, but a human, who crawled into Santa's sack one Christmas Eve at an orphanage.  Buddy's mother had passed away not long after he was born and, though the elves had raised him, he actually had a father who lived in New York City, who never knew he had a son, and it was time for Buddy to meet him.  While the premise sounds corny and, let's face it, it is, the film was not only funny, it was absolutely heartwarming, and became an instant holiday classic.  Trust me, if you love the movie, you'll love ELF, THE MUSICAL, which makes it's way, courtesy of First Stage, to the Todd Wehr Theater in Milwaukee this holiday season.

Directed by Jeff Schaetzke, Elf, The Musical really is essentially just like the film, just with parts converted to song instead of dialogue. Adam LaSalle makes a fabulous First Stage debut as Buddy the Elf, as well as Alan Ball, who plays Walter, Buddy's father.  Rachel Whyte makes an impressive debut as Jovie, Buddy's girlfriend.  Natalie Ford, as Walter's wife, Emily, also makes her First Stage debut, though you may have seen her at Skylight, Milwaukee Opera Theatre or In Tandem in Milwaukee in recent years, and Steve Watts as Santa Claus makes his First Stage debut, though he's been a regular at Fireside Theatre and has been in two productions at The Rep.  The wonderful Kelly Doherty, who we saw as the Truchbull in last season's Matilda, The Musical at First Stage, returns as Deb, secretary to Walter, and Mrs. Claus.   Marques Causey, who was fabulous in last season's Ben Butler with Milwaukee Chamber Theatre, makes his return to First Stage as the Macy's Manager and Mr. Greenway.  This production also has two large casts of young performers; I saw the SparkleJolly cast, and I have to note that Alex Radtke was brilliant as Michael, Walter and Emily's son.

Elf, The Musical truly is a wonderful holiday production for the entire family because it has laughs for all ages, but just enough magic and sentimentality to give it the proper tone for Christmas.  I cried at the same part in the musical as I did in the movie; vocally, it was very strong.  The production has already become the highest grossing in First Stage history, causing the run to be extended an additional week.  This is the second full-length musical for First Stage, following last season's Matilda, The Musical, and although the lack of live music in both productions left them just short of spectacular, the quality of the productions and talent of the casts has brought First Stage to a whole new level of theatre entertainment for families.  I'm looking forward to seeing more of these types of productions from First Stage in the future, and I hope that Elf, The Musical gets put into the rotation of holiday shows, henceforth.

ELF, THE MUSICAL runs through January 5th at the Marcus Center's Todd Wehr Theater, located at 929 N. Water Street in downtown Milwaukee. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Marcus Center Box Office at 929 N. Water Street, by phone at (414) 273-7206 or online at www.firststage.org. 

Special Events
Annual Grandparent Holiday Brunch
Sunday, December 15 at 11AM

Gather the grandparents, parents and children to enjoy a festive holiday brunch at the Bradley Pavilion at the Marcus Performing Arts Center, followed by a performance of Elf - The Musical  at 1PM. Along with a delicious brunch, your family will enjoy a special visit from some of our cast, fun activities for the kids and more!
Space is limited! Reserve yours.  

About First Stage
First Stage is one of the nation’s leading theaters for young people and families. First Stage touches hearts, engages minds and transforms lives by creating extraordinary theater experiences through professional theater productions that inspire, enlighten and entertain. Its Theater Academy, the nation’s largest high-impact theater training program for young people, fosters life skills through stage skills and serves nearly 2,000 students each year. As Wisconsin’s leader in arts-integrated education in schools, First Stage’s dynamic Theater in Education programs promote literacy, character building and experiential learning throughout the curriculum, serving over 20,000 students each year. First Stage was selected to participate in the Partners in Education program of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts (2012), and was the recipient of the Milwaukee Business Journal’s Eureka Award, recognizing creativity and innovation in business, education and the arts for its Next Steps program for students on the autism spectrum (2013, 2015). First Stage is a member of TYA/USA, the American Alliance for Theatre and Education, the Wisconsin Alliance for Arts Education, Milwaukee Arts Partners and is a cornerstone member of the United Performing Arts Fund (UPAF). www.firststage.org

By Mary Boyle

Now in its 44th year, the Milwaukee Repertory Theater's production of A CHRISTMAS CAROL is the second-longest, continuous running professional production of Charles Dickens' iconic novella in the country.  The show is a part of the holiday traditions of dozens of area families, but has also become a tradition for several of Milwaukee's finest actors, who continue to return to the production, year after year.  For those who have yet to experience it, perhaps this is the year to go and see why this particular story—a Christmas ghost story published in 1843—continues to enchant audience and actors, alike. 

A Christmas Carol, of course, is the tale of Ebeneezer Scrooge, a mean and miserly old man who runs a counting house in Victorian London with his single, ill-treated employee, the good-natured Bob Cratchit.  On the night before Christmas, Scrooge is visited by the ghost of his former partner, Marley, who warns Scrooge that he will be doomed to his terrible fate in the afterlife if he does not change his ways.  To help him, Marley tells Scrooge he will be visited by three spirits: the Ghost of Christmas Past, the Ghost of Christmas Present, and the Ghost of Christmas Future.  The spirits, by reminding him of his past mistakes and showing him what his future will be if he continues on his path, teach Scrooge a lesson about the true Spirit of Christmas.  

Mark Clements, the Rep's Artistic Director, unveiled his version of this classic four years ago, featuring an astounding rotating set design by Todd Edward Ivins, all new costumes by Alexander B. Tecoma, and a new audience participation aspect, which they've dialed back a bit in the following seasons so that is is less obnoxious.  Clements' version highlights the ghost story aspect of the tale that may be too loud and scary for young audiences.  There are several parts of the play that have a horror-movie quality to them, such as when the ghost of Marley makes his entrance and just about everything involving the Ghost of Christmas Future.  In my humble opinion, it is overly scary for a family holiday production; if your children are overly sensitive to brightness and noise, you may want to wait before taking them on the journey with Scrooge and stick to The Muppet Christmas Carol, instead.

Still, Jonathan Wainwright is excellent as Dickens and Scrooge and I absolutely adore Angela Iannone in all of her roles (Mrs. Fezziwig, Assistant to Dickens, Charitable Worker and Mrs. Dilber); she is simply a delight to watch.  Reese Madigan, Todd Denning, James Pickering, and Mark Corkins reprise their roles as Bob Cratchit, the Ghost of Christmas Present, Mr. Fezziwig/Charitable Worker, and the Ghost of Marley, respectively.  The biggest change this year is Tami Workentin in the role of Ghost of Christmas Past, which was quite different from Deborah Staples, who has played the role for the ps.  All in all, a delightful cast and still a magical performance that can't help but put one in a Christmas mood, between the red and gold beauty of the historic Pabst Theater and the beautifully sung Christmas Carols.  If you have yet to make this production a part of your Christmas tradition, give it a try.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL runs through December 24th at the historic Pabst Theater, located at located at 144 E. Wells St. in downtown Milwaukee.  Tickets can be purchased by calling (414) 224-9490, in-person at the Box Office at 108 E. Wells, or online at www.MilwaukeeRep.com.

Small Business Saturday has been giving Black Friday a greater run for its money each year since 2010, when it was conceived by American Express.  Supporting local businesses helps to keep main street communities, like those Ozaukee is made of, vibrant and unique.  We are so lucky to have so many independent businesses to choose from when it comes to holiday shopping in Oz, and we'd like to highlight some of our favorites!
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CEDARBURG

What would the holidays be without toys?  In our humble opinion, Cedarburg Toy Co. is the very best place to get toys for all ages (and we mean all ages!).  Owners, Zachary and Natasha Loos, are dedicated to the importance of play – not only will they help you select the perfect toy, they will gift-wrap it for you, as well!  Located in the heart of downtown Cedarburg and open late on Festive Fridays, you simply must make a visit to this magical little store a part of your holiday tradition.  Hot tip:  The elves at the Toy Co. are brilliant at stealth shopping and wrapping.  Give them a wink and a nod and they'll wrap and bag a gift behind the counter while the recipient is busy playing in the store, if you know what I mean.

Sister stores, Weeds and Lillies, in downtown Cedarburg specialize in fair trade and locally-made items.  Weeds is more home and garden, with everything from tea and soaps to yard art and plants, while Lillies is more focused on clothing, jewelry and accessories.  Lilies also has a greatly expanded baby and children's area, filled with beautiful toys, clothing, and more.  Also open late on Festive Fridays, a trip to Cedarburg is not complete without a visit to these stores!

PORT WASHINGTON

Do you have a musician in your life?  What about young children?  Either way, Lakeside Music & Naturals has you covered!  Owners, Kat Chronis and Aaron Rossmiller, along with their two young children, share their combined passions in one location, so you can purchase a guitar, drums, and new strings, or you can also purchase natural body care products and cloth diapers! This truly family business also offers Music Together classes for young children, and plenty of events for local moms, as well.  Give them a visit in downtown Port Washington!

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GRAFTON

The best kind of buying local is buying things that are actually made locally; luckily, Grafton's Arts Mill boutique has a whole second floor full of artist studios to browse through with all kinds of hand-made items!  Located right on the river in downtown Grafton, there is a delightful coffee shop, AM Coffee, and the Grafton Yarn Store located on the first floor to enjoy, as well!

SAUKVILLE

Although it's better known for nature trails and outdoor events, Riveredge Nature Center also has an incredible gift shop filled with locally-made goodies, including bottles of Riveredge's own maple syrup!  Find the perfect gift for outdoor or birding enthusiasts, or simply give the gift of a Riveredge membership, for a whole year of outdoor fun!