Tom Godleski (center, with double bass) and Seth Rhinehart (banjo) with cast. Photo by Tommy Propest
This holiday season, Asheville Community Theatre will turn back the clock to a simpler time with the heartfelt play, Snowbound. The production opens December 2 and runs through December 18. Written by award-winning playwright and Asheville native Tom Godleski and directed by Mark Jones, this play is a reminder of what the season is all about.
Set in 1955, a winter snowstorm leaves travelers delayed in the train depot of a small mountain town on Christmas Eve. As the evening unfolds, strangers connect to one another through music and conversation, sharing songs and stories of Christmases past. Godleski’s band, Buncombe Turnpike, will team up with musicians from Sons of Ralph to perform live, original bluegrass numbers, while the children’s choir shares their joyous singing. Godleski hopes this musical evening will delight the audience and inspire folks to share their own tunes and tales this holiday.
Named for one of his original songs, Snowbound is Godleski’s fourth play. As with his previous works, he weaves mountain culture, music and family into a story that is resoundingly sincere. He says, “I think anyone who loves the holiday season would enjoy seeing Snowbound. It is a fun show with a lot of love and friendship in it.”
Godleski believes the holidays are a time for gathering with friends and family to share stories, songs and the spirit of giving. Even when plans take an unexpected turn for his characters, he shows how the warmth of community can turn a cold, dark night into a place of joy, laughter and belonging.
“Snowbound embodies everything I love about Western North Carolina,” Jenny Bunn, ACT marketing director, says. “It celebrates community, the legacy of storytelling and the ability to share experiences through singing and music. Also, it’s a show that you can watch with your grandma and your five-year-old, and all three of you will enjoy it. I’m very proud that it’s a part of our mainstage season.”
Performances are Friday and Saturday at 7:30 P.M. and Sunday at 2:30 P.M. Tickets are $22 for adults, $19 for seniors and students and $12 for those 17 and under. For the first weekend, all adult, senior and student tickets are discounted to $18. For information about Snowbound or Asheville Community Theatre, visit ashevilletheatre.org. Tickets may be purchased online, by calling 828.254.1320 or in person at the ACT Box Office located at 35 East Walnut Street.
