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In the true meaning of Christmas, Kelowna organizations, committees, and dedicated citizens rallied to raise funds in order to give 220 children and families a fantastic introduction to the arts. Initiated by Hot Holiday Homes Christmas tour, Kelowna's deserving little ones enjoyed a special mantinee performance of Oliver on Sunday, December 14th at the Kelowna Actors Studio. The event, Making Memories, was a huge success.
Making Memories enables families who would not normally attend this Christmas classic the opportunity to experience the wonder that is live theatre. Through working with local organizations such as, the Bridge Youth and Family Services, Families in Touch, Cops for Kids Charitable Foundation, and Okanagan Boys and Girls Clubs, the Making Memories event had the opportunity to bring Christmas cheer to local children.
Photo credit: contributed.
“By exposing [children] to the arts, it opens their eyes and their minds to different opportunities that might be available to them,” said Debbie MacMillan, volunteer and event planner for the committee.
The annual event was sparked only six years ago and for the past five years, Making Memories has paired up with Ballet Kelowna in a theatre performance of the Nutcracker. Taking a new spin on the Christmas classic in the event's 6th year, Making Memories partnered with Kelowna Actors Studio and MacMillan said it was an absolute ball.
The kids were excited and delved right into the theatre experience. Dressed in their Sunday best, children were doted on and adorned with freshly baked cookies from the culinary school at Okanagan College.
Photo credit: contributed.
Adding the finishing touches to a perfect afternoon, the Making Memories committee, on behalf of several Kelowna organizations, provided the children with Christmas stockings. Stuffed right to the brim with toys, books, cookies, candies, and stuffies, the children left the theatre feeling ecstatic.
Photo credit: contributed.
MacMillan commented on the dedication Kelowna has towards community values and is happy to see initiatives, such as Making Memories, bringing cheer to local children.
“It's great for the community. We live in a pretty special place where you can always count on people to support you.”
Photo credit: contributed.
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