Scrooge Muse: Nicholas Hughes reflects on his long-time role as everyone’s favorite miser

November 30, 2022 | by Sammi Leigh Melville

Photo by Brianna Dow

The holiday season is upon us, and so, as is tradition, the crew at Open Stage is gearing up for “A Christmas Carol,” that wonderful Dickens tale featuring Nicholas Hughes as Ebeneezer Scrooge. I got the chance to interview Nick about his ongoing role in the production.

TheBurg: How many years have you been doing a Christmas Carol? Do you think it provides any challenges doing it so many years in a row?

Nicholas: I think the first year I did it was 2000. The biggest challenge is, I’m getting old! But obviously one knows most of the script, and, over the years, there have been different directors and substantial script changes. The original script had been adapted by Don Alsedek’s son and was very traditional—really the whole play was taken from the original Dickens book. But when Stuart [Landon] took over the direction, he adapted a much more modern version with substantial changes. And my own attempt to play Mr Scrooge changes every year—not only from myself, but also from my fellow cast members; they’re different every year. The balance changes, and their interpretation changes.

TheBurg: You’ve lived a long time with this character, though. What is the most surprising thing that Scrooge has taught you over the years?

Nicholas: Even though the play is, by Dickens’ standards, a very short story, he’s managed to concentrate a lot of emotional response—there’s the emotional response to Christmas, the season, and what it means to people, and also about Mr. Scrooge, the sort of man he was. I mean, he lived a very gray life. He just thought the only important thing was to gather money, and anybody who wasn’t involved in increasing their own wealth was of no interest. He really was a one-dimensional person. But over the course of the play, by the visitation of the ghosts, he sees that there’s a lot more to life, and so every year I do see that a little differently.

TheBurg: I’d hope you can’t completely relate to Scrooge, but is there anything you relate to?

Nicholas: I can imagine the sort of man that he used to be, and, as I grow older, I feel that I’m realizing a lot more of the importance of things in life that one doesn’t appreciate as a younger person. So, I do feel myself growing and changing as Scrooge does. Perhaps not quite in the same way.

TheBurg: What do you hope your audiences will take away from the performance?

Nicholas: For most people, they’re not entirely unfamiliar with the story. So, it’s like when you watch a television show or a movie that you’ve seen before, you do get a certain happiness in remembering things that you knew about the play before, but also seeing new things. The more people in the cast, it’s very good for the audience because all their friends and relatives come, and that’s nice. And then you get people who are traditionalists, and they come every year because that’s what they do. Some people come because it’s Dickens, some people come because it’s Christmas. Some people come because they know the plot and they love it. Obviously, there will be people who’ve never seen it before. But hopefully once they see it once, they’ll want to see it again—not just our version! The reason why it’s been done so often is that everybody feels that they can add something of their own. My favorite version is probably the one from, I think, the 1930s with Alastair Sim. [He] is so wonderful as Scrooge. He’s just so honest in his portrayal. You just feel that this is a real person, and that’s not so true with some of the other versions—like the Muppets.

TheBurg: Do you think some of Alastair Sim’s characterization comes across in your performance, or did you try to differ it enough…?

Nicholas: I would like to think so. I try to play it straight. Obviously, it’s something you can ham up, but I don’t think that’s the way to go.

Well, Nicholas Hughes has captured our hearts for years in this role, and I don’t doubt this year will be any different.

“A Christmas Carol” runs Dec. 3 to 23 at Open Stage, 25 N. Court St., Harrisburg. For more information, visit www.openstagehbg.com.

UPCOMING EVENTS AT HARRISBURG’S PROFESSIONAL DOWNTOWN THEATERS

At Gamut Theatre
www.gamuttheatre.org
717-238-4111

Popcorn Hat Players present
“The Elves & The Shoemaker”

Dec. 3 to 17, Saturdays at 1 p.m.

Popcorn Hat Players
Countdown to Noon

Dec. 31 at 11 a.m.

TMI Improv
Last Laughs of 2022

Dec. 31, shows at 9 p.m., 10 p.m., 11 p.m.

At Open Stage
www.openstagehbg.com
717-232-6736

“Who’s Holiday!”
Nov. 26 to Dec 22

A Very Court Street Cabaret Christmas!

Dec. 2, 10, 16, 22 at 9:15 p.m.

“A Christmas Carol”
Dec. 3 to 23

“Figgy Pudding”
Rock & jazz arrangements of Christmas favorites

Wednesday, Dec. 14 at 7:30 p.m.

NYC Showtune Queen Paige Turner’s

“Drag Me to Christmas”
Saturday, Dec. 17 at 7:30 p.m.

If you like what we do, please support our work. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

Look Who’s Back: Cindy Lou throws back another shot of good cheer with “Who’s Holiday!”

November 30, 2022 | by Sammi Leigh Melville

Photo by Marc Faubel

Everyone has heard the story of the Grinch who stole Christmas, but who of us have heard what happens after they all hold hands and sing “Fah Who Foraze?”

Enter Cindy Lou Who—and boy, does she have a story to tell. It’s dark, it’s hilarious, and it’s a little bit risqué. And it is coming up on its third year of performances at Open Stage, starring Rachel Landon as Cindy Lou, all grown up and rough around the edges.

In celebration of this next round of performances, I interviewed Landon to get a behind-the-scenes glimpse.

TheBurg: Prior to “Who’s Holiday!” had you ever done a one-woman show?

Rachel: I had! I had done a musical called “Tell Me On a Sunday,” which is a one-woman musical written by Don Black and Andrew Lloyd Webber. It’s about a woman who moves to New York from England, and she’s trying to find love and a career. It’s a very ‘80s show, but beautiful music and some of the best songs that Webber ever wrote.

TheBurg: How does this experience compare with “Tell Me On a Sunday?”

Rachel: There’s this saying, I think it’s Voltaire, that said, anything too stupid to be said is sung. So, in a musical, it’s really easy to emote and live in the moment and portray your feelings—it’s Shakespearean, because we say what we feel. And interestingly, “Who’s Holiday!” is told very much like a Dr. Seuss book. It’s told in Seussian rhyme, so it does kind of work the same way. I think Cindy is actually surprisingly deep and complicated and layered, something you would not expect from such a silly show. Also, a lot of the humor comes from the bad things that happen to her—and, in most shows, your protagonist triumphs in some way. Really, she’s just a person where her whole life, terrible things have happened to her consistently, [but] she keeps going. And that’s so lovely. You don’t see that from most people. I think she inspires me in that way.

TheBurg: Do you find doing the show for multiple years provides any challenges?

Rachel: Well, what was really cool was that [Chris Gibson] actually took on directing the show, so, I had settled into, you know, a joke is told this way, or this is how this moment lands. But with a new director and new eyes on it, that was really useful to me to find new moments and discoveries about the character. What I’ll say is, I don’t profess to be the best actor in the world—I’ve trained and I’m good enough at it that I can connect with this character and connect with the audience. And I’m feeling it every time—my tears are real tears, and my laughter is real laughter, and my joy is real joy, because I enjoy telling her story every night. And I get to disappear into Cindy.

TheBurg: What is the biggest thing you’ve learned from Cindy?

Rachel: To be able to laugh at ourselves and laugh at the tragedy of our lives, because it’s really easy to get bogged down by the horrors of the world around us. And in the end, just to love people around you, and to love yourself, and find joy—that’s all wrapped up in the idea of Christmas. I’m not a religious person, but how I was raised was like, hey, here’s one day! It’s like Scrooge’s story—let’s just find one day to be kind to each other, if we can do that. I learn that every single night, and we all have our depressions and anxieties about who we are and what’s happening. But my God, we can just sit down and be happy, and—

TheBurg: Have a Christmas party.

Rachel: And drink and be with friends and eat good food and just celebrate life.

“Who’s Holiday!” runs through Dec. 22 at Open Stage, 25 N. Court St., Harrisburg. For more information, visit www.openstagehbg.com.

If you like what we do, please support our work. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

Happenings: Our December Calendar of Events

November 30, 2022 | by Missy Smith

Museums & Art Spaces

AACA Museum
161 Museum Dr., Hershey
717-566-7100; aacamuseum.org

The Jenkins 1966 Volkswagen Type 2 Deluxe Microbus, through Dec. 23

Art Association of Harrisburg
21 N. Front St., Harrisburg
717-236-1432; artassocofhbg.com

“It’s Not All Fun and Games,” a photographic collaboration between Karen Commings and R. Andrew Hoff, Dec. 2 through Jan. 5; reception: Friday, Dec. 16, 5-8 p.m.

“A Journey Through Concrete City to Cresson,” two photographic series by Michael Hower, Dec. 2 through Jan. 5; reception: Friday, Dec. 16, 5-8 p.m.

Carlisle Arts Learning Center (CALC)
38 W. Pomfret St., Carlisle
717-249-6973; carlislearts.org

“Art and Motherhood,” a show of Pamela Black’s colorful abstract paintings, through Dec. 3

“The Way I See It,” a diverse collection of photography by the West Shore Camera Club, Dec. 9-Jan. 14

“Art for the Holidays,” featuring holiday gifts and art by CALC artist and craftspeople, through Dec. 30

The Cornerstone Coffeehouse
2133 Market St., Camp Hill
thecornerstonecoffeehouse.com

December artist of the month

Fort Hunter
5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg
717-599-5751; forthunter.org

“The Gilded Age at Fort Hunter Fashion Exhibit,” through Dec. 23

Gallery on the Square
Millersburg Area Art Association
226 Union St., Millersburg
Facebook: Millersburg Area Art Association

Mid Penn Bank Art Show & Sale Reception and Award Ceremony, Dec. 2, 6 to 8 p.m.

The Annual Holiday Show, through Dec. 31

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyareaartassociation.com

HAAA Member Exhibition at Hershey Public Library, through Dec. 10

HAAA Member Exhibition at The Cocoa Beanery, through Jan. 9

Campbelltown Academy of Music and Arts Ballroom Exhibit, through Jan. 14

Backstage Café at the Allen Theater, through Jan. 31

Messiah University
One University Ave., Mechanicsburg
717-766-2511; messiah.edu

“Following the Pattern,” featuring the conceptual sculpture work of Travis Donovan, Dec. 2-Jan. 22; artist talk and reception: Dec. 2, 4:30 p.m.

The Millworks
340 Verbeke St.; Harrisburg
717-695-4888; millworksharrisburg.com

New works by John Davis, Mary Gelenser, Richard Souders, Averi Shepps, Joelle and Justin Arawjo, and Erica Hilligas, through Dec. 11

Pennsylvania National Fire Museum
1820 N. 4th St., Harrisburg
717-232-8915; pnfm.org

Exhibits dedicated to Pennsylvania firefighting history

Perry County Council of the Arts (PCCA)
PCCA Gallery, 1 S. 2nd St., Newport
717-567-7023; perrycountyarts.org

Artisan Marketplace of Perry County, filled with local art and handmade gifts for the holidays, through Jan. 14

Rose Lehrman Art Gallery
One HACC Drive, Harrisburg
717-780-2435; hacc.edu

Student Honors Photography, through Dec. 8; reception: Dec. 8, 5:30-7 p.m.

The State Museum of Pennsylvania
300 North St., Harrisburg
717-787-4980; statemuseumpa.org

“Art of the State” annual juried exhibition selected by a distinguished panel of jurors, through Jan. 15

“Game Changers: Pennsylvania Women Who Made History,” celebrating women from across the state in diverse fields and detailing the contributions they made and challenges they faced in their lifetimes.

Susquehanna Art Museum
1401 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-233-8668; susquehannaartmuseum.org

“Nature in Art,” the work of Victoria Fuller that explores the interconnectedness of human and natural systems on VanGo! Museum on Wheels, through December.

“Cojiform,” a multidisciplinary interactive art installation by Pittsburgh-based artist Isaac Bower that combines sculpture and creative problem-solving, through Dec. 4

“I’m Still Black—Osmyn Oree,” photography by Osmyn Josef Oree, depicting the diversity and depth of Black expression, Dec. 8-Jan. 8

“Lies & Redactions—A Survey,” Doug Navarra’s work of mark-making, historic found documents, bold minimalistic redactions and layered geometric patterns, through Jan. 8

“Deep Roots—Ornamentation and Identity,” highlights the work of artists Kuzana Ogg, Cecilia Paredes, Daisy Patton, Helice Wen and Helen Zughaib, through Jan. 22

“Fleeting Pleasures,” featuring work by some of the best known ukiyo-e artists exploring this ‘floating world’ of Edo culture, through Jan. 22

“Alternative Means Necessary,” featuring alternative process photographs by C. McCormick, Renee Romero, and Tamsen Wojtanowski, through Jan. 29

The Trout Gallery
Dickinson College
240 W. High St., Carlisle
717-254-8159; troutgallery.org

“Bronze—Highlights From the Permanent Collection,” through Feb. 25

“Noise,” drawings, paintings, prints and photographs by Dickinson Professor Emeritus of Art Ward Davenny, through April 15

Wheel of Light Studio
3738 Peters Mountain Rd Halifax
wheeloflightstudio.com

Dec. 1-Jan. 7: “Home for the Holidays” show with art and local gifts

Wildwood Park
100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg
717-221-0292; wildwoodlake.org

Photo contest display of photographs that feature all of Dauphin County’s parks, Dec. 10-Jan. 18; reception and winners announcement: Jan. 15, 1 p.m.

“Winter Discovery,” Olewine Nature Center special exhibits and activities, and self-guided walks along the Towpath Trail, highlight the magic of the winter world, Dec. 10-Jan. 31

Read, Make, Learn

Carlisle Arts Learning Center (CALC)
38 W. Pomfret St., Carlisle
717-249-6973; carlislearts.org

Dec. 3: Holiday Painting & Ornament Workshop (ages 16-adult), 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Dec. 3: Copper Enameling Workshop (ages 13-adult), 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Dec. 17: Holiday Ornaments (ages 5-12), 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 18: Craft Beer & Clay, 7-9 p.m.
Dec. 27, 28, 29: Jingle Jamboree (ages 5-12), 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Dauphin County Library System
dcls.org

Dec. 2, 9: Preschool Storytime on Zoom, 11-11:40 a.m.
Dec. 2, 9: Teen Dungeons and Dragons online, 4-5 p.m.
Dec. 2, 9: Tween Dungeons and Dragons online, 4-5 p.m.
Dec. 6: Born to Read on Zoom, 9:30 a.m., 10:15 a.m.
Dec. 6: All Ages Storytime on Zoom, 6-6:30 p.m.
Dec. 7: Toddler Storytime on Zoom, 11-11:40 a.m.
Dec. 15: Live and Learn Lyceum, Open Studio, and Chautauqua—The Activist and the Animator on Zoom, 5-7 p.m.

East Shore Area Library
4501 Ethel St., Harrisburg
717-652-9380; dcls.org

Dec. 1, 8, 15: Anime Club (ages 13-18), 4-5 p.m.
Dec. 2, 9: Preschool Storytime (ages 3-5 years), 9:30-10:10 a.m.
Dec. 5: Born to Read (birth-18 months), 9:30-10 a.m.
Dec. 5: All Ages Storytime, 11-11:30 a.m.
Dec. 5: Paws 2 Read, 6-7:30 p.m.
Dec. 7: Toddler Storytime (ages 19-35 months), 9:30-10:10 a.m.
Dec. 13: A Tabletop for the Season, 5-7:30 p.m.

Elizabethtown Public Library
10 S. Market St., Elizabethtown
717-367-7467; etownpubliclibrary.org

Dec. 1-29: Train Display (days/times vary)
Dec. 9: Homeschool Connection, 10:30 a.m.
Dec. 10: Fiber Artists, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m.
Dec. 17: Book Discussion Group, 10-11 a.m.
Dec. 20: Musik Time, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Dec. 22: Knitter’s Group, 5-7 p.m.

Fort Hunter
5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg
717-599-5751; forthunter.org

Dec. 9: Paper Ornament Workshop, 7-8:30 p.m.
Dec. 10: Santa’s Reindeer and Virtual Ms. Santa, 12:30-2:30 p.m.

Fredricksen Library
100 N. 19th St., Camp Hill
717-761-3900; fredricksenlibrary.org

Dec. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Language at the Library—Spanish, 10-11 a.m.
Dec. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Meditation to Calm the Mind, 12-12:30 p.m.
Dec. 2: Chess Club, 6:30 p.m.
Dec. 5, 12, 19: Mission Transition Kindergarten, 6-7 p.m.
Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26: Baby & Toddler Time, 10-10:30 a.m.
Dec. 5, 19: Frederickson Writes on Zoom, 6:45-8:45 p.m.
Dec. 6: Curl up with the Classics—“Oh, Money! Money!” 10-11 a.m.
Dec. 6, 20: READ to Dogs, 6:30-8 p.m.
Dec. 7: Moving Forward Book Group w/ Hospice of Central PA, 1-2 p.m.
Dec. 7: Teen STEAM Meetup, 4-5:30 p.m.
Dec. 7, 14, 21, 28: Children’s Story Time, 11-11:30 a.m.
Dec. 8, 15, 29: Meet and Greet Library Pups, 10-11 a.m.
Dec. 9: Peaceful Poses Adult Yoga, 9-9:45 a.m.
Dec. 9: Peaceful Poses Yoga Storytime, 10-10:45 a.m.
Dec. 9: Film Friday, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Dec. 10: Santa’s Workshop, 1-4 p.m.
Dec. 11: Teen Crafternoon, 1-2:30 p.m.
Dec. 13: Teen Writers’ Meetup, 6-8 p.m.
Dec. 14, 21: Tween STEAM Meetup, 5:15-6 p.m.
Dec. 16: Family Paint & Pix, 6-8 p.m.
Dec. 17, 18: Paint with Us, 1-3 p.m.
Dec. 20: Tween LEGO Club, 6-7:30 p.m.

Gallery on the Square
Millersburg Area Art Association
226 Union St., Millersburg
Facebook: Gallery on the Square

Dec. 3: Woodburning Gnome Christmas Ornaments, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Dec. 4: Watercolor Snow Man, 1-3 p.m.
Dec. 10: Kids Christmas Workshop (ages 7-12), 2-4 p.m.
Dec. 11: Snowman Globe, 1-3 p.m.

Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA)
hersheyart.org

Dec. 7: Watercolor Workshop, 9 am.-3 p.m.

Hershey Public Library
701 Cocoa Ave., Hershey
717-533-6555; hersheylibrary.org

Dec. 1, 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27, 29: Penn State Hershey—Mothers & Babies, 10:15 a.m.
Dec. 1, 8, 15: Storytime for Everyone, 10:15 a.m.
Dec. 1, 15, 29: Hershey Quilters, 12:30 p.m.
Dec. 3: Joy to the World! The Stories Behind Our Favorite Christmas Carols, 2 p.m.
Dec. 3, 17: Chess Club, 1 p.m.
Dec. 5: Books and Babies, 10:15 a.m.
Dec. 5, 12: Storytime for Everyone, 11 a.m.
Dec. 5, 19: Movie Monday, 3 p.m.
Dec. 6, 13: 1, 2, Whee!, 10:15 a.m.
Dec. 6, 13, 20: Girls Who Code, 6 p.m.
Dec. 7: LEGO Club, 4 p.m.
Dec. 10: Chess Tournament, 10 a.m.
Dec. 10: Holiday Wreaths, 11 a.m.
Dec. 12: MOMS Club of Derry Township, 10 a.m.
Dec. 14, 28: Artisan Wednesday, 3 p.m.
Dec. 17: Cocoa Area Fiber Enthusiasts, 10 a.m.
Dec. 17: Williamsburg Wreath, 11 a.m.

Joseph T. Simpson Public Library
16 N. Walnut St., Mechanicsburg
717-766-0171; simpsonlibrary.org

Dec. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Mah Jongg, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: LEGO Time, 10:15-11:15 a.m.
Dec. 3: Family Christmas Party, 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
Dec. 5, 12, 19: Rhyme Time (18 months and older), 10:15-10:35 a.m.
Dec. 5, 12, 19: Toddler Time (18 months-3 years), 10:45-11:05 a.m.
Dec. 5, 12, 19: Storybook STEAM, 6-7 p.m.
Dec. 6: Teen Tuesday, 6-8:30 p.m.
Dec. 6, 13, 20, 27: Tea & Stitches, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 10: Gingerbread House Workshop, 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Dec. 12: English Conversation Club, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Dec. 13: Tween Scene, 6-7 p.m.
Dec. 14: Mad About Mysteries on Zoom, 7-8 p.m.
Dec. 15: Thursday Morning Book Club, 10-11 a.m.
Dec. 15: Teen Third Thursday, 6 p.m.
Dec. 17: Discovery Club, 10:30-11:15 a.m.
Dec. 17: Adventure Club, 11:30 am.-12:15 p.m.
Dec. 17: Teen Squad Meeting, 3-4 p.m.
Dec. 17: Trivia at Home—Pixar, 6-8 p.m.
Dec. 19: Monday Night Book Club, 7 p.m.
Dec. 22: STEAM Club (grades 1-2), 6 p.m.
Dec. 22: STEAM Club (grades 3-5), 6 p.m.
Dec. 27: Tabletop Game Night, 6-8 p.m.

Kline Library
530 S. 29th St., Harrisburg
717-234-3934; dcls.org

Dec. 1, 8: All Ages Storytime, 10:15-10:45 a.m.
Dec. 2, 3: Pop-up Book Sale, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Dec. 7: Paws 2 Read (ages 6-11), 5-6 p.m.
Dec. 17: Knit One, Crochet, Too!, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

The LGBT Center of Central PA
717-409-5781; centralpalgbtcenter.org

Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Passageways, 2 p.m.
Dec. 4, 11, 18, 25: Young Adult Group, 4 p.m.
Dec. 7, 14, 21, 28: Common Roads (ages 12-17), 6-8 p.m.
Dec. 8: Aging with Pride Luncheon, 12 p.m.
Dec. 10: LGBTQ Book Club, 4:30-6:30 p.m.
Dec. 11, 27: Queers and Quests game night, 6 p.m.

Madeline L. Olewine Memorial Library
2410 North 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-232-7286; dcls.org

Dec. 2, 9, 16: Speech Links to Literacy (ages 3-5 years), 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 6: All Ages Storytime, 10:30-11 a.m.
Dec. 6, 13: Girl Scouts—Academic Edge, 4-5 p.m.
Dec. 10: Chess and Go Club, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Dec. 16: Speech Links to Literacy, 10-11:30 a.m.

McCormick Riverfront Library
101 Walnut St., Harrisburg
717-234-4976; dcls.org

Dec. 5, 12: Girls Who Code (grades 3-5), 5-6 p.m.
Dec. 7, 14: Teen Podcast (ages 13-28), 5-6 p.m.
Dec. 13, 27: The Pennsylvania Past Players Living History Workshop Series, 5-7 p.m.
Dec. 15: Live and Learn Lyceum, Open Studio, and Chautauqua—The Activist and the Animator, 5-7 p.m.

Middletown Public Library
20 N. Catherine St., Middletown
717-944-6412; middletownpubliclib.org

Dec. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: LEGO Club, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Online Science Fiction Book Club
Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Star Trek Rewatch online group
Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26: STEM Club, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Dec. 6, 13, 20, 27: Storytime and Craft, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Dec. 6, 13, 20, 27: Tales with T.A.I.L.S., 6-7 p.m.

Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art
176 Water Company Rd., Millersburg
717-692-3699; nedsmithcenter.org

Dec. 3: Wreath Making Workshops, 9-11 a.m., 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., 2-4 p.m.

New Cumberland Public Library
1 Benjamin Plaza, New Cumberland
717-774-7820; newcumberlandlibrary.org

Dec. 1: Ruth’s Mystery Discussion Group, 10:15 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 1-31: Holiday Scavenger Hunt
Dec. 1-Jan. 2: Beanstack Challenge—Kids Cocoa Club (ages 0-18)
Dec. 2, 16: Movers & Groovers (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
Dec. 5: Monday Great Books Discussion Group, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Dec. 5: Smokey Bear & Woodsy Owl Poster Contest, 5-7 p.m.
Dec. 5, 12, 19: Storytime & More (ages 2-5), 10:30 a.m.
Dec. 6, 13, 20: Book Babies (ages 0-2), 11:15 a.m.
Dec. 7: Musical Mornings (ages 2-5), 10:30-11 a.m.
Dec. 8, 22: Block Party! (ages 0-3), 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Dec. 13: Tales for Tails (ages 6-12), 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Dec. 14: Wednesday Great Books Discussion Group, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Dec. 14: Kid Builders (ages 3 and older), 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Dec. 17: Teen Holiday Take & Make (ages 13-17), 10 a.m.
Dec. 17: Couponing for Extreme Savings, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 17: Children’s Book Writers Critique Group, 2-4 p.m.
Dec. 19: Holiday Storytime, 6 p.m.
Dec. 20: Teen Game Party (ages 12-17), 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Dec. 21: Tween Book Club (ages 8-12), 5 p.m.

The State Museum of Pennsylvania
300 North St., Harrisburg
717-787-4980; statemuseumpa.org

Dec. 1-4: “The Zula Patrol—Down to Earth”
Dec. 1-30: Highlights Tour, 1:30-2:30 p.m. (Wednesdays-Sundays)
Dec. 2, 17: Storytime, 10:30 a.m.
Dec. 4: Art of the State Artists Conversations, 2 p.m.
Dec. 7: Explore! Candles, 11:30 a.m.
Dec. 7-29: SEASONS
Dec. 8: Family Gallery Tour—Paleontology, 11:30 a.m.
Dec. 8-30: Animals of the Night
Dec. 9: Virtual Program—Eastern Hemlock Tree Conservation in PA, 12:15 p.m.
Dec. 14: Homeschool Program—Wetland Ecology, 10 a.m.
Dec. 15: Curiosity Kids—Holidays 1970s and 1980s edition, 11:30 a.m.
Dec. 21: Explore! Dendrochronology, 11:30 a.m.
Dec. 22: Victorian Puzzles & Games, 11:30 a.m.
Dec. 23: Art of the State Stroller Tour, 10:30 a.m.
Dec. 28: Cup Challenges, 11:30 a.m.
Dec. 29: Curiosity Kids—PORTRAITS featuring works from the Art of the State Exhibition, 11:30 a.m.

Susquehanna Art Museum
1401 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-233-8668; susquehannaartmuseum.org

Dec. 10: The Masks We Wear Writing Workshop, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Dec. 14: Foundations of Drawing, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Wheel of Light Studio
3738 Peters Mountain Rd Halifax
wheeloflightstudio.com

Dec. 1: Wood Burning Ornaments Workshop, 6-8 p.m.
Dec. 3: Art Journaling Series, Book Binding 101, 1-3 p.m.
Dec 10: Second Saturday, Clay Luminarias, Silk Painting, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Dec 17: Santa in the Gallery, Photo Booth, Macrame Ornaments, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Wildwood Park
100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg
717-221-0292; wildwoodlake.org

Dec. 1: Owl Prowl at Detweiler Park, 5:30-7 p.m.
Dec. 2: Owl Prowl at Wiconisco Creek Park, 5:30-7 p.m.
Dec. 3: Cadette Girl Scouts—Night Owl, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Dec. 4, 11: Natural Ornaments, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Dec. 10: Birds & Coffee with Appalachian Audubon Society, 10-11 a.m.
Dec. 13: Public Meeting—Wildwood Lake Restoration, 7-9 p.m.
Dec. 17: Stained-Glass Workshop, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Dec. 18: Reindeer Workshop, 1:30-5 p.m.

Live Music

Appalachian Brewing Co./Abbey Bar
50 N. Cameron St., Harrisburg
717-221-1083; abcbrew.com

Dec. 17: Solar Federation Tribute to RUSH

Appell Center for the Performing Arts
50 N. George St., York
717-846-1111; appellcenter.org

Dec. 2: Jazz in the City
Dec. 3: Family Event—Holly Jolly Jazz Time
Dec. 17: Jagged Edge

Blair Music Center, Lutz Recital Hall
Lebanon Valley College
101 College Ave., Annville
717-233-8668; lvc.edu

Dec. 1: Chamber Winds
Dec. 3, 4: Christmas at The Valley
Dec. 5: Small Jazz Ensemble
Dec. 6: Guitar Ensemble
Dec. 7: Strings Ensembles Concert
Dec. 8: Concert Band
Dec. 9: An Evening of Art and Music

Central PA Friends of Jazz
www.friendsofjazz.org

Dec. 4: Jeff Hamilton Trio

Elizabethtown College
1 Alpha Dr., Elizabethtown
717-361-1212; www.etown.edu

Dec. 4: Fall Choral Concert

The Englewood
1219 Research Blvd. Hummelstown
717-256-9480; englewoodhershey.com

Dec. 2: A Charlie Brown Jazz Christmas with The Eric Mintel Jazz Quartet
Dec. 9: Start Making Sense Talking Heads Tribute
Dec. 15: The Bad Toupees
Dec. 23: Colebrook Road

Fort Hunter
5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg
717-599-5751; forthunter.org

Dec. 7: St. Thomas Dulcimer Society
Dec. 18: Brass Triumphant

Greystone Brew House
303 Golf Club Ave., Dillsburg
717.347.0632; greystonebrewhouse.com

Dec. 2: Dan Jamison
Dec. 9: SOC Duo
Dec. 16: Tim Colgan
Dec. 23: Keara Rose
Dec. 30: Zach Nyce

Greystone Public House
2120 Colonial Rd., Harrisburg
717-829-9952; www.greystonepa.com

Dec. 1: Jason Carst
Dec. 8: Dan Jamison
Dec. 15: Aaron Daniel Gaul
Dec. 22: Roy LeFever
Dec. 29: Keara Rose

H*MAC
1110 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-441-7506; harrisburgarts.com

Dec. 1: Peekaboo
Dec. 2: The Motet & TAUK
Dec. 3: No Mana
Dec. 3: The Emo Night Tour
Dec. 9: Bear Grillz
Dec. 17: From Ashes To New
Dec. 17: Giovannie & The Hired Guns
Dec. 30: Wicked X-mas II

Harrisburg Gay Men’s Chorus
harrisburggaymenschorus.org

Dec. 3: Holiday Concert at Unitarian Church of Harrisburg
Dec. 4: Holiday Concert at St. Peters Lutheran Church, Middletown
Dec. 17: Holiday Concert at Bergstrasse Lutheran Church, Ephrata
Dec. 18: Holiday Concert at Heidelberg UCC York

Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra
The Forum at 5th and Walnut St., Harrisburg
717-545-5527; harrisburgsymphony.org

Dec. 10-11: The Paul Simon Songbook

Harrisburg University Presents
concertseries.harrisburgu.edu

Dec. 2: Wetleg (XL Live)
Dec. 8: Bob Moses (XL Live)

Hershey Theatre
15 E. Caracas Ave., Hershey
717-534-3405; hersheytheatre.com

Dec. 4: Straight No Chaser
Dec. 5: Lindsey Stirling

Hollywood Casino
777 Hollywood Blvd., Grantville
717-469-2211; www.hollywoodpnrc.com

Dec. 2: Jess Zimmerman Band
Dec. 3: The Prince Project Tribute Band
Dec. 9: Funktion
Dec. 10: Vertigo Vultures
Dec. 16: Cazhmiere
Dec. 17: Grant Bryan Band
Dec. 23: Colt Wilbur Band
Dec. 24: Jason Dumm Band
Dec. 30: Emily’s ToyBox
Dec. 31: The Luv Gods

Keystone Concert Band
145 E. Main St., First Floor, Mechanicsburg
717-329-7541; keystoneconcertband.com

Dec. 3: Concert at St. Andrews Episcopal Church
Dec. 10: Concert at All Saints Episcopal Church

Luhrs Performing Arts Center
1871 Old Main Dr., Shippensburg
717-477-7469; luhrscenter.com

Dec. 2: Martina McBride
Dec. 3: The Raleigh Ringers
Dec. 11: Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis

Majestic Theater
25 Carlisle St., Gettysburg
717-337-8200; gettysburgmajestic.org

Dec. 2: Symphony Orchestra Concert

McCormick Riverfront Library
101 Walnut St., Harrisburg
717-234-4976; dcls.org

Dec. 16: Ray Holland, Lizzy Baldwin, Liz Augustine

Messiah University
One University Ave., Mechanicsburg
717-766-2511; messiah.edu

Dec. 4: Messiah University Christmas Concert
Dec. 6: Messiah University Musica Nova Student Compositions
Dec. 9: Tim Warfield’s All Star Jazzy Christmas
Dec. 11: Messiah University Guitar Ensemble

Metropolis Collective
17 W. Main St., Mechanicsburg
717-458-8245; metropoliscollective.com

Dec. 9: The Comedie of Robert Kennedy, Bang Bang Band Girl, Some Kind of Jazz Piano

Open Stage of Harrisburg
223 Walnut St., Harrisburg
717-232-OPEN; openstagehbg.com

Dec. 14: Figgy Pudding

Perry County Council of the Arts
Landis House

67 N. 4th St., Newport
717-567-7023; perrycountyarts.org

Dec. 4: Steve Rudolph

Pine Street Presbyterian Church
310 N. Third St., Harrisburg
717-238-9304; pinestreet.org

Dec. 11: A Festival of Lessons and Carols

Rusty Rail Brewing Company
5 N. 8th North St., Mifflinburg
570-966-7878; rustyrailbrewing.com

Dec. 1: Rapid Run
Dec. 5, 19: Monday Night JamFest
Dec. 12: Allan Combs
Dec. 15: Gift, Troutman & Gift

Susquehanna Chorale
One College Ave., Mechanicsburg
717-533-7859; susquehannachorale.org

Dec. 16: Candlelight Christmas at Messiah University, Mechanicsburg
Dec. 17: Candlelight Christmas at Elizabethtown College
Dec. 18: Candlelight Christmas at Market Square Presbyterian Church, Harrisburg

The Susquehanna Folk Music Society
717-745-6577; sfmsfolk.org

Dec. 4: Open Mic Night at West Shore Theater
Dec. 10: Twisted Pine
Dec. 18: Emerging Artist Showcase Reunion Show with Buffalo Rose, Angela Autumn, Noah G. Fowler

The Ware Center
42 N. Prince St., Lancaster
717-871-2308; artsmu.com

Dec. 2: Open Rehearsal for Tuba Christmas
Dec. 8: Irish Christmas in America
Dec. 10: Club 42 Series—Amy Banks and Harrisburg Jazz Collective

West Shore Theatre
Bridge St., New Cumberland
717-759-5464; westshoretheatre.org

Dec. 17: Christy Altomare
Dec. 23: Uptown Band’s “Christmas Extravaganza”

Whitaker Center
222 Market St., Harrisburg
717-214-ARTS; whitakercenter.org

Dec. 14: The World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra

XL Live
801 S. 10th St., Harrisburg
717-409-8975; xlhbg.com

Dec. 2: Wetleg
Dec. 4: The River 97.3 Toys for Tots
Dec. 8: Bob Moses
Dec. 9: X-mas Salvation Army Benefit with Defiant, Eternal Frequency, Observe the 93rd, Light the Lamp, Marrisa Porter
Dec. 10: Back in Back AC/DC Tribute
Dec. 16, 17: Pigeons Playing Ping Pong
Dec. 23: XL Live Festivus w/ Big Boy Brass, Spilly Cave, Very Fine Gentlemen, Side of Yams
Dec. 31: The Amish Outlaws

The Stage Door

American Music Theatre
2425 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster
717-397-7700; amtshows.com

Dec. 1-30: The 2022 Christmas Show—“Home for the Holidays”

Appell Center for the Performing Arts
50 N. George St., York
717-846-1111; appellcenter.org

Dec. 10: Greater York Dance presents “The Nutcracker”
Dec. 11: Greater York Dance presents “The Hip Nut”
Dec. 16: Hike Head and Jared Stern, with Audrie Marsh

The Belmont Theatre
27 S. Belmont St., York
717-854-3894; thebelmont.org

Dec. 2-11: “A Christmas Story” The Musical

Carlisle Theatre
44 West High St., Carlisle
717-258-0666; carlisletheatre.org

Dec. 9-18: “A Steampunk Christmas Carol”
Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre
510 Centerville Rd., Lancaster
717-898-1900; DutchApple.com

Dec. 1-30: “A Christmas Carol” The Musical

Gamut Theatre Group
15 N. 4th St., Harrisburg
717-238-4111; gamuttheatre.org

Dec. 3-22: “The Elves & The Shoemaker” w/Popcorn Hat Players
Dec. 31: TMI Improv—Last Laughs of 2022

H*MAC
1110 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
717-441-7506; harrisburgarts.com

Dec. 11: Queens Who Brunch

Harrisburg Christian Performing Arts Center
1000 S. Eisenhower Blvd, Middletown
717-939-9333; thehcpac.org

Dec. 2-4: “Elf the Musical”

Harrisburg Comedy Zone
110 Limekiln Rd., New Cumberland
717-920-5653; harrisburgcomedyzone.com

Dec. 2: Divas Down Under Jingle Bell Rock Drag Show
Dec. 2, 3: Jay Nog, Mike Keegan
Dec. 9, 10: Joe Deuce, Nathan Wallace
Dec. 16: Jim Dailakis

Harrisburg Improv Theatre
1633 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg
hbgimprov.com

Dec. 2: Level 1 Class Show, Ham Juice, 7th Kevin, The Offbeats, Humpday Momentus, Heart Throbs, Nuclear Family
Dec. 3: Solo Sleepover, Beautiful Baby, Love Triangle, Barn Bitches, The Renegades, Uncomfortable
Dec. 9: Free Improv Jam, House Team Z, Chill Karen, Bandito, The Bondfire Society
Dec. 10: Free Mixer, The Show Will Self Destruct, The Bat, Barbara, Tiny French Cigarettes
Dec. 16: Level 3 Class Show, Ham Juice, 7th Kevin, Cosmic Trash, Mane n’ Tail
Dec. 17: Level 1 Class Show, Sunday School, Leg of Lamp, Rockstar Goes Supernova
Dec. 18: Level 1 Class Show
Dec. 19: Level 3 Class Show
Dec. 23: Free Improv Jam, House Team Z, Chill Karen, Midtown Funk, Merely Players
Dec. 24: Free Mixer, Snicker Casket, Sugar Weasel, Elderprov, The Original Six, TBA

Hershey Theatre
15 E. Caracas Ave., Hershey
717-534-3405; hersheytheatre.com

Dec. 1: “Bluey’s Big Play the Stage Show”
Dec. 9: Nikki Glaser
Dec. 17, 18: Central PA Youth Ballet presents “The Nutcracker”

Keystone Theatrics
The Playhouse at Allenberry
1559 Boiling Springs Rd., Boiling Springs
717-258-3211; www.keystonetheatrics.com

Dec. 3-23: “Winter Wonderettes”

Little Theatre of Mechanicsburg
915 S. York St., Mechanicsburg
717-766-0535; ltmpa.com

Dec. 2-12: “A Little Women Christmas”

Luhrs Performing Arts Center
1871 Old Main Dr., Shippensburg
717-477-7469; luhrscenter.com

Dec. 7: Cirque Dreams Holidaze

Majestic Theater
25 Carlisle St., Gettysburg
717-337-8200; gettysburgmajestic.org

Dec. 9-18: “A Christmas Carol”

Messiah University
One University Ave., Mechanicsburg
717-766-2511; messiah.edu

Dec. 2-10: Fall Senior Series

Open Stage of Harrisburg
223 Walnut St., Harrisburg
717-232-OPEN; openstagehbg.com

Dec. 1-22: “Who’s Holiday!”
Dec. 2-22: “A Very Court Street Cabaret Christmas!”
Dec. 3-23: “A Christmas Carol”
Dec. 17: Paige Turner—“Drag Me to Christmas”

Theatre Harrisburg
513 Hurlock St., Harrisburg
717-232-5501; theatreharrisburg.com

Dec. 9, 10: “Holiday Cabaret” at Whitaker Center

The Ware Center
42 N. Prince St., Lancaster
717-871-2308; artsmu.com

Dec. 15-18: “A Christmas Carol!”

West Shore Theatre
Bridge St., New Cumberland
717-759-5464; westshoretheatre.org

Dec. 9-11: Sankofa presents “Black Nativity”

Whitaker Center
222 Market St., Harrisburg
717-214-ARTS; whitakercenter.org

Dec. 3: Studio 22 Dance Academy presents “The Nutcracker Ballet”
Dec. 9, 10: Theatre Harrisburg presents “Holiday Cabaret”
Dec. 10, 11: Central PA Youth Ballet presents George Balanchine’s “The Nutcracker”

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Timeless Tales: Local author’s children’s books bring the Bible to life

November 30, 2022 | by Harvey Freedenberg

Bible stories have long been a staple of Jewish and Christian children’s religious education. For all their enduring appeal, it’s often a challenge to present these ancient tales in a way that’s both meaningful and accessible to young people.

Retired Harrisburg attorney Carl Shuman has tried to fill that void with a pair of books in what he calls the “Torah Time Travel” series, an early-grade chapter book series published by Apples and Honey Press, an imprint of Behrman House, well-known publisher of Jewish books.

Featuring Shuman’s words and whimsical illustrations by C. B. Decker, the books’ goal is to introduce his audience to aspects of Jewish values like welcoming the stranger or the power of faith and perseverance, as seen through the eyes of a creative, if somewhat nerdy, modern boy named Max and his classmate, Emma.

Take a Shot

Speaking in the dining room of his Susquehanna Township home, Shuman, a Philadelphia native, smiles easily. He exudes the air of a warmhearted “Zadie”—the Yiddish word for grandfather—a cherished role he occupies in the lives of his grandchildren, ages 8 and 4.

After graduating from Georgetown Law School in 1982, Shuman spent several years in private practice and served in the Office of General Counsel under Gov. Bob Casey. He then worked as an employment lawyer for Highmark for the balance of his career until retirement in 2019.

Writing long has been an avocation for Shuman. He has written two as-yet unpublished novels, and one of his short stories won first prize in a contest sponsored by the former Central PA Magazine in 2006.

But before he retired, he decided he wanted to try his hand at a children’s book.

“We’ve all had the experience of reading these Jewish stories to our children,” said Shuman, who has raised three of his own with Beth, his wife of 38 years. “Some are delightful, and some are a little dry.”

He decided he would “take a shot at writing something that will appeal to parents as well as kids.”

Shuman chose to write a Jewish-themed book because he “felt most comfortable in that milieu.” For his subject matter, he was inspired by a collection of books a friend had given him years earlier that focused on values like honesty and curiosity, exemplified in the lives of Abraham Lincoln and other historical figures.

The first of his books—“Max Builds a Time Machine”—reflects on the Jewish value of hospitality, sparked by the account in the Book of Genesis of Abraham, the patriarch of the Jewish people, and his wife Sarah, welcoming three strangers who turn out to be angels sent by God.

Max, Shuman’s protagonist, builds a time machine out of a cardboard box and spare parts from an erector set and other toys. He uses it to transport himself to the land of Canaan in 2000 BCE, where he experiences Abraham and Sarah’s kindness to strangers firsthand.

In “Max and Emma Cross the Red Sea,” Shuman follows his two young time travelers during Passover back to the moment of the Exodus, where they learn about courage and faith from the story of a man named Nachshon, who some Jewish sages identify as the first person to enter the waters before they parted and allowed the Israelites to cross to freedom.

Most of his research, Shuman said, involves immersing himself in midrashim, or rabbinic debates, that form the Talmud, the compendium of commentaries on the Hebrew Bible’s text. He thinks of his books as a “celebration of the rabbinic imagination” and believes there is a “wonderful value in learning how the rabbis talked to each other.” To further that kind of dialogue, both books helpfully include “A Note for Families” that offers questions and suggestions for further discussion.

Meant to Do

Rabbi Ron Muroff, spiritual leader of Harrisburg’s Chisuk Emuna Congregation, where Shuman is a longtime member, appreciates that, for all the lightheartedness of Shuman’s books, he’s engaged in a serious project.

Muroff links Shuman’s stories to the process begun by rabbis nearly 2,000 years ago of “reading slowly, discerning meaning from each word of the Torah.” Shuman proceeds in a similar fashion, the rabbi said, offering “original and creative interpretations of ancient stories that shed new light on our contemporary world.”

Shuman’s work has gained him recognition outside his own religious community, notably by PJ Library, a project of the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. Since its inception in 2005, the organization has distributed an age-appropriate book monthly to its subscribers in the United States and Canada, a total approaching 20 million books to date.

PJ Library chose “Max Builds a Time Machine” for its 7-year-old subscribers in June 2022. “Max and Emma Cross the Red Sea” is the library’s selection for that age for Passover 2023.

Chris Barash, PJ Library’s Book Selection Committee chair, said that Shuman “has a singular way of creating relatable characters and captivating stories for young readers. He seamlessly threads Jewish content into his books, making them a wonderful fit for PJ Library.”

Shuman is in the final stages of editing a third book, scheduled for publication in 2024, which will focus on the story of Jacob and Esau and the value of forgiveness.

“For most of my life, I’ve called myself a lawyer,” he said. “Now, when people ask me what I am, I say I’m a children’s author, and it’s a very comfortable feeling because I think it’s truer to what I was meant to do.”

For more information on Carl Shuman and his books, visit www.carlshuman.com.

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Peppery Christmas: Reader feedback gives Rosemary a seasonal idea

November 30, 2022 | by Rosemary Ruggieri Baer

One of the best things about writing this cooking column for TheBurg has been the contact I have had with readers.

It might be questions about how best to store Parmesan cheese or, in one case, sending me a little tool to chop up ground beef. I am always happy and grateful to hear from folks. Food does seem to unite people.

Every once in a while, a reader will share thoughts on how a recipe turned out for them or share a new recipe with me. Some recipes are more popular than others!

Recently, during a visit to the farmers market, a reader I have come to know through this column asked if I have ever made Marcella Hazan’s peppers with anchovies and black olives. Marcella, although deceased, remains a popular and revered cookbook author.

I told this reader that I love Marcella’s recipes, as well as those of her son, Giuliano. I was looking for a recipe for the December issue, but should I be writing about peppers at Christmastime? Well, maybe yes!

The recipe shared with me came with rave reviews. After reading through it, I thought it could be an excellent addition to the Christmas party buffet as well as an accompaniment to the Christmas roast beef at dinner. The anchovies in the dish made me immediately think of Christmas Eve and the Italian tradition of the “Feast of the Seven Fishes.”

Peppers with Anchovies & Black Olives

A note about the ingredients:

The original recipe calls for yellow and red bell peppers. The colors in the finished dish are beautiful, so try to find them rather than the more familiar green ones. Or use all red.
Choose the kind of Mediterranean olives you like best. There is nothing wrong with using pitted ones.
Anchovies in a jar are best. I found some spicy pepper ones that work well in a dish like this.
Peeling the peppers may seem like a nuisance, but it is not hard to do and the peppers will be silkier.

Ingredients

4 large, meaty bell peppers (2 yellow and 2 red or all red)
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 large garlic cloves, chopped very fine
5 flat anchovies, packed in olive oil
3 tablespoons chopped flat leaf parsley
Fine sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper
30 small or 15 large Greek olives (I use pitted ones)

Directions

Cut each pepper lengthwise along the creases, remove the stem and the pithy core. Remove the skin of each pepper piece with a vegetable peeler.
Pour the olive oil into a large skillet, add the garlic and anchovies, and turn the heat to medium high.
Cook, stirring and mashing the anchovies with a wooden spoon to help them dissolve. When the garlic turns a pale yellow, add the chopped parsley (be careful not to let the garlic burn). Stir a little more.
Add the peppers with a little bit of salt and a few grindings of pepper. Turn the peppers over to coat with olive oil. When the peppers are partly done, add the pitted olives.
Cook, stirring from time to time, until the peppers are very soft. Serve warm or at room temperature.

If you are serving these peppers as an appetizer, crostini—either plain or broiled with olive oil and garlic—are a “must-have” accompaniment. You could also serve the peppers with slices of crumbly Parmesan Reggiano cheese. Bel Paese is a soft Italian cheese my family loved, especially at Christmas time. It would be so good with the peppers, too. And, if you prefer, have them with omelets at Christmas brunch. Eggs and peppers are an Italian favorite!

This Christmas, I am thankful for TheBurg for giving me the opportunity to share my love of food with our loyal readers.

Buon Natale, everyone!

Editor’s Note: This Christmas, TheBurg is equally thankful for Rosemary, who has been with us since our very first issue!

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Dazzling December: A winter wonderland of choices to hear this month

November 30, 2022 | by Belle Frank

December is here, and, while some people are getting amped for the holidays, others are already tired of the cold.

I think, though, that we can all agree that nothing brings around holiday cheer like music. With the weather promising to get even chillier, the only logical way to stay warm is to grab a drink and listen to some great artists play great music. This month’s lineup is perfect to bring some joy to your life. So, put on your ugly holiday sweater, grab some eggnog, and get ready.

Straight No Chaser, 12/4, 7:30 p.m., Hershey Theatre

This acapella group will put you in the mood for some seasonal cheer. I remember going to their concert as a kid and being blown away by the performance. The precision to be able to sing while simultaneously performing as the percussion was simply amazing to me. To this day, I’m amazed at acapella groups and their pure talent. If you feel as I do, you won’t want to miss them, especially at this time of year.

Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, 12/16, 8 p.m., XL Live

Think of what this band sounds like based on their name. Nope, you’re wrong. This psychedelic, jazzy mix is just what you need for a night on the town. Listening to their music just makes you want to get up and groove to it. If you’re not up and moving while listening to these tunes, you’re definitely missing out. The unexpected sounds are just what you need to lift your spirits.

Pentatonix, 12/20, 7 p.m., Giant Center

You can’t think of modern Christmas music without thinking of Pentatonix. Their rendition of “Mary, Did You Know?” could bring tears to your eyes. This is a show you definitely don’t want to miss out on. I think even the Grinch would want to see this Christmas show. And I think he would invite Scrooge, as well. And both of them would marvel at the amazing show that this group puts on year after year. Not only do they have impeccable control of their vocals, but they blend effortlessly together as a team.

Mentionables

Wet Leg, Dec. 2, XL Live
For King and Country, Dec. 3, Giant Center
Lindsey Stirling, Dec. 5, Hershey Theatre
Bob Moses, Dec. 8, XL Live
Bear Grillz, Dec. 9, H*MAC
From Ashes to New, Dec. 17, H*MAC
Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Dec. 21, Giant Center

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Standing His Ground: “The Inspection” adds a modern twist to the military boot camp story

November 30, 2022 | by Sammi Leigh Melville

Image courtesy of A24.

We’ve seen military dramas aplenty, but there’s never been a film like this—and a film based on a true story, to boot.

Writer/director Elegance Bratton tells a powerful story with his debut fictional feature, “The Inspection,” based on his own experience of queer Black masculinity. It’s a boot camp story, one in which a young man tries to take hold of his future and win back his family, with harrowing consequences.

Ellis French (played by Jeremy Pope) was thrown out of his home when he was 16 by his homophobic mother Inez (Gabrielle Union). After nearly a decade of homelessness, French is determined to break the cycle and give himself opportunities—and maybe also to get back on his mother’s good side. He chooses to do this by joining the Marines. Little does he know that boot camp is fraught with even more discrimination, hate and fear.

At first, French tries to mimic the behavior of his fellow recruits. He even tells everyone his phone call home is to “his girl,” in a “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” attempt to lay low. But quite quickly, his fellow recruits find him out, and French becomes the target of cruel and, often, dangerous hazing. And he’s not the only one targeted for being themselves. Fellow recruit Ismail (Eman Esfandi) is targeted for being Muslim.

Unit commander Laws (Bokeem Woodbine) is the main driver of discrimination. While some of the recruits push each other around and try to put others down to lift themselves up, this abuse, coming from a commander, is downright terrifying—more than you would expect at even a military boot camp. On the other end of the scale, drill Sgt. Rosales (Raúl Castillo) works to build the recruits up, focusing particularly on French. Strangely enough, both officers claim that their actions are to fine-tune the recruits to be the best Marines they can be.

The added layers of discrimination make it even more difficult to watch the usual abuse seen in boot camp stories, but the character arcs do start coming around. We slowly watch the team of recruits start to look out for each other and become a team.

Pope gives a spectacular, nuanced performance, as do Woodbine and Castillo. Each character leaps past the boundaries of two-dimensional stereotypes. And Union’s performance is a sight to behold. She does a stunning job of portraying a character with too much to hold onto but so little ground to stand on. And Bratton’s autobiographical touch to the film makes the story that much more vibrant, making “The Inspection” stand out not only from the films of its genre, but from any film across the board.

Don’t miss “The Inspection,” playing at Midtown Cinema this December.

Midtown Cinema is located at 250 Reily St., Harrisburg. For more information, visit www.midtowncinema.com.

December Events At Midtown Cinema

Saturday Morning Cartoons
Saturday, Dec. 3 at 10 a.m.

National Theatre Live presents

“Much Ado About Nothing”

Sunday, Dec. 4 at 5 p.m.

Down in Front! riffs on

“Santa Claus Conquers the Martians” (1964)

Friday, Dec. 9 at 9:30 p.m.

3rd in the Burg Movie Night presents

“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” (1989)

Friday, Dec. 16 at 9:30 p.m.

Special Holiday Screenings

“Home Alone” (1990)

Saturday, Dec. 17 at 1 p.m. & 9 p.m.

“White Christmas” (1954)
Sunday, Dec. 18 at 6 p.m.
Wednesday, Dec. 21, 7:30 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 23 at 7:30 p.m.

“Elf” (2003)

Sunday, Dec. 18 at 6 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 22 at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 24 at 7:30 p.m.

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Still Running: Harrisburg native Ricky Watters is long retired from the NFL, but his life’s work continues

November 30, 2022 | by Jeff Falk

Ricky Watters (right) with his parents Jim and Marie, in the early 1990s.

It’s been more than 20 years since Ricky Watters retired from the NFL. His life now is no better, no worse than it was then, only different.

The Harrisburg native has adjusted quite nicely to a life of not playing the game he still loves. But that doesn’t mean that the transition wasn’t a challenge or that it didn’t take time.

Watters now resides in the San Francisco area, and his life is filled with a growing family, mentoring at-risk youth and public speaking. He also recently launched a new self-help business venture, Impact Wellness.

It’s all fairly typical post-retirement stuff for a former professional athlete in his early 50s, following a not-so-typical lifestyle over the first half. If anything, Watters’ current existence is less centralized and more rounded.

“It definitely took a while to adjust,” Watters said. “Nothing can replace the high from playing or having people cheer for you. It was a tough situation. I’m not really sure how long it took to adjust to life after football. But it’s tough for everyone.”

Watters extracted the most he could out of a 10-year career in the NFL, first with the San Francisco 49ers, then the Philadelphia Eagles and, finally, the Seattle Seahawks, from 1992 to 2001.

An extremely durable running back, Watters posted 2,622 career carries for 10,643 rushing yards and 70 total touchdowns. He enjoyed the type of playing career that created discussions about a possible induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

“I played for three great organizations,” Watters said. “But I’d have to say our Super Bowl victory with the 49ers (in 1995) has to be the highlight. As far as football goes, I still love the game. I always watch my three teams play.”

In 2001, the grueling physicality of the NFL began to take its toll on Watters’ body, and his carries and productivity fell off. It’s a physical investment that the former Bishop McDevitt star is still paying off today.

“It was injuries,” he said. “I didn’t want to stop playing, but we had a new baby on the way. It’s always tough to retire. But I knew it was time to hang it up.”

Badge of Honor

After accomplishing nearly everything a scholastic player could at Bishop McDevitt in the mid-1980s, Watters went on to star at Notre Dame. He helped the Fighting Irish to a 34-21 victory over West Virginia in the Fiesta Bowl and the 1988 national championship.

“Even though I experienced some great moments throughout my career, my mind always takes me back to my championship team at Bishop McDevitt,” Watters said. “At Bishop McDevitt, they taught me how to grind. My teammates were always there for me when I wasn’t so strong and I didn’t know who I was.”

Adopted as an infant, Watters began playing football in Harrisburg as a Pee Wee around the age of 8. His Harrisburg upbringing fostered his appreciation for the family unit, as well as empathy for at-risk kids.

At some point, “buying a house for my mom” became a professional goal, he said.

“Ricky was the most motivated, the most competitive person I’ve ever met,” said Sean Barowski, Watters’ backfield mate at Bishop McDevitt. “And that has played out in his life. He was amazing. In high school, you just knew. Competitiveness can be taken the wrong way, as cocky or conceited, but he was just a winner.”

Geographically, San Francisco is 2,429 miles from Harrisburg, but, because it remains so close to his heart, Watters’ hometown is never far from his mind.

“Harrisburg will always be my roots,” Watters said. “They backed me before I was Ricky ‘Running’ Watters. Back then, I was ‘Skinny’ Ricky Watters. I have a lot of pride about being from Harrisburg. I’m glad I was able to get out, but I’ll always wear it like a badge of honor.”

Outsiders know Ricky Watters as a former football player. But it wasn’t until Watters fully discovered himself as a person that he could allow others to know him.

“I appreciate what football did for me,” he said. “It made me mentally disciplined, physically disciplined, and taught me the value of teamwork. It’s a tough sport, and you take your lumps. I think people know my passion for the game. But I think, off the field, I’m just as passionate for my community.”

Reflective, moral and mature, Watters is in a really good place right now personally. It’s an evolution that can be traced more to his foundation than the playing of any game.

“He’s just a stand-up guy,” said Barowski. “He’s an incredible father and husband. They’re an incredible family. He’s fit into the society the way all former NFL players do. He’s competitive in everything he does, chess, checkers, basketball. It’s just in his blood.”

“As long as I’m still living, I’m going to make a difference,” Watters said. “That’s what it’s all about for me now. You have to learn every day, stay positive and always work on yourself. Just when you think you’ve gotten past one challenge, another one comes along. But the most important thing to know is that everyone has talent.”

For more information on Impact Wellness, visit www.impact-wellness.com.

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Downtown Debut: Harrisburg’s Narçisse Theatre Company announces new home downtown

November 29, 2022 | by Maddie Gittens

The future home of Narçisse Theatre Co. in downtown Harrisburg

A local theater company is getting ready to raise the curtain on its new location.

Harrisburg’s Narçisse Theatre Company recently announced that it soon will have a home of its own, after years of performing in local venues.

“This is the first African American-run theater space in the city,” said founder and Artistic Director FL Henley Jr. “It’s for Harrisburg, by Harrisburg.”

The theater will be located at 312 Chestnut St. in downtown Harrisburg’s SoMa district, a building that previously housed the International House student exchange program. According to Henley, Narçisse will occupy the first floor and create an intimate theater space that can seat about 60 people.

The theater company, which started in 2016, previously held shows in H*MAC and at Italian Lake and has partnered with Gamut Theatre Group for performances. A few years ago, Narçisse began looking for its own space as the company gained popularity with shows like “Waiting For Godot,” “Antigone” and “Kill Keller.”

After working with building owner Harristown Enterprises, Narçisse decided on the Chestnut Street location for its new home. Henley views this next step as an important moment for the future growth of the company.

“This is our chrysalis moment,” he said. “[Narçisse] has grown so much.”

With the new theater will come “way, way more” programming, according to Henley, including more frequent shows, musical performances and acting classes for youth and adults.

The company plans to open the new theater in April, Henley said.

Narçisse prides itself on its original plays, often written by local writers, and its unique and provocative performances. The theater’s shows rarely include happy endings, sometimes excluding any sort of ending at all—that’s the way that Henley likes it.

“I want theater to be extremely challenging and thought-provoking,” he said.

Narçisse has also become known for its mission to make theater a more multicultural and diverse experience. As a Black-owned company, Narçisse aims to showcase artists of color and to attract underrepresented populations from the community, Henley explained.

“We bill ourselves as the people’s theater company,” he said. “We believe in access to theater.”

For Narçisse, a big part of ensuring accessibility is keeping ticket prices affordable. The company never charges more than $15 for a show and offers tickets for any size donation for Sunday matinees.

Looking towards the future, Henley envisions Narçisse growing into an arts education academy that offers expanded courses and programs for community members.

This step in finding a home draws Narçisse closer to that goal, he explained.

On Dec. 15, at 7 p.m., the company will hold a town hall meeting for the public to learn more about Narçisse, ask questions and share input and ideas for the new space. The meeting will take place at 312 Chestnut St. and will include refreshments.

“Our mission is to break down the walls and barriers and build bridges between communities,” Henley said. “We want to bring all these different audiences together.”

To donate to Narçisse Theatre Company or to learn more, visit their website.

If you like what we do, please support our work. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

Dauphin County proposes 2023 budget, contains no tax increase

November 28, 2022 | by Maddie Gittens

Dauphin County Administration Building

Dauphin County recently announced its proposed budget for the new year, which includes investments in its workforce, according to officials.

The county proposed a $221.6 million 2023 general fund budget, a significant decrease from last year’s $278.5 million budget.

There is no proposed property tax increase and the county millage rate would remain at 6.88 mills. This is the 18th straight year with no county tax increase, according to the commissioners.

“Holding the line on taxes gets harder with each passing year, as the costs of goods and services continue to rise,” commissioner Chair Mike Pries said in a statement. “This budget proposal truly involved a team effort that we are proud of.”

The proposal includes salary hikes for all union contract employees. Salary increases for non-union employees are 2.95%.

Several million dollars of the proposed budget are also allocated for payments related to disposal costs at the Harrisburg incinerator and the county guarantee on the Harrisburg Parking Authority debt payments.

According to a statement by the county, staffing and employee retention remains a challenge. Additionally, unfunded mandates, such as those from the state for running elections, have been burdensome and the cost of materials is high, the county said.

“It is becoming much more expensive to operate in government,” said commissioner George Hartwick. “We will continue to be mindful of ways to use non-taxpayer resources so to minimize financial stress on our residents.”

The proposed 2023 Dauphin County budget is available to view, here, and at the Dauphin County Administration Building at 2 S. 2^nd St., Harrisburg.

The county commissioners will vote on the budget at their Dec. 14 public meeting.

Harrisburg also recently announced its proposed 2023 budget, which includes no property tax increase. The $74.9 million proposed general fund budget is one that city officials say is the lowest budget in several years.

For more information on Dauphin County’s proposed 2023 budget, visit their website.

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