‘Holiday Spectacular' an area tradition

LIMA - After 14 years of performances, the Ohio Northern University Holiday Spectacular has become a holiday tradition in the area. The event is 7:30 p.m. today, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday at Veterans Memorial Civic Center. The show premiered at ONU Freed Center last weekend.

"It's something people plan on ... something neat," said Sally Dungan, of Ada, who works for Freed Center box office.

Carols, ballerinas, Frosty the Snowman and even Santa Claus are a part of the show and includes ONU theater and music departments. Dungan said it incorporates singing, dancing and theater.

Dungan's children: Abby, 11, and Jacob, 9, are in the show and have been several times before. They and the other kids are involved in several scenes throughout the performance, she said.

"They have a great time," Dungan said.

The show is underwritten by the DeBow and Catherine Freed Endowment for the Arts and Kewpee, according to Anita Cook, Freed Center marketing manager. The two venues - Ada and Lima - ensures a wide audience.

"(Kewpee is) a huge supporter of the show. They're just wonderful," Cook said. "The quality of the show is really amazing."

Kirsten Osbun-Manley, ONU resident artist in music, directs the show. Music is provided by the ONU student pit orchestra, under the direction of Lloyd Butler.

Tickets are $5 for general-admission seating and available at Kewpee locations or the Freed Center at 419-772-1900.

WHAT: Ohio Northern University Holiday Spectacular

WHEN: 7:30 p.m. today, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday

WHERE: Veterans Memorial Civic Center, Lima

COST: $5

FOR MORE INFO: 419-772-1900