A Surprise for Santa @ Candlelight Pavilion

It's been a tradition in our group for the last several years to go to Candlelight Pavilion for their Christmas program. It's always a fun day, the story is original and features Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus, the food is yummy, the desserts are amazing, and we always have a great time. So once again, we are at Candlelight and looking forward to a great day.

There is always a beautiful Christmas tree in the lobby - this one features ornaments made with cast photos from all the shows that have been performed at Candlelight over the years.

We enjoyed our meal and thoroughly loved the show. Normally at some point during the show, the little kids are invited on stage to visit with Santa, and at the end of the show, everyone is invited on stage to take photos with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. This year, because of Covid, they couldn't do that, so they had the kids write notes to Santa and the notes were read out loud and the kids were handed a special treat at their seats. We all really enjoyed that because the notes were so sweet, and some of the requests were so heartfelt.

All and all, it was a really fun day and we left looking forward to coming again next year.

Kneeling L-R: Robin's guest, Sharon L, Joy, Kathryn (our newest FRIEND), Leslie

Standing L-R: Debbie, Robin, Carol L, Seema, Carol N, Barbara, Tina, Kathy, Toni

Hiding in the back: Heather

Thanks Queen Leslie, for another wonderful day. Merry Christmas everyone! See you next time!

NOTE: Little did we know that three short months after this performance, Candlelight Pavilion would be closing its Claremont location forever. The decision to close was made due to many logistic problems including keeping their staff and patrons safe from the effects of the Covid 19 Pandemic, having to reduce their audience size because of parking lot restrictions, the inconvenience of construction next to and behind the theatre, and the continuing burden of trying to maintain an 80+ year old building.

Their plan/hope/dream is to take some time off to regroup and let the dust settle, and then start searching for another venue that is better equipped to handle their unique dinner-theatre experience. Hopefully in the near future they can reopen and continue their 37 year tradition of providing the best in food and entertainment. Please keep the Bollinger family in your prayers for comfort and peace as they grieve the loss of their beloved venue and for strength and wisdom to find a new perfect location.

And when they do, we'll be back!