Join Arts Alive for Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre’s

American Holiday Stories, a literary lover’s holiday delight.

Thursday, December 11, 2025 6:00 - 10:00 PM Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre

Warwick Theater 3927 Main St KCMO 64111

This special event, perfect for the holidays, includes a reception with live music plus performances of two great American Christmas classics, Thornton Wilder’s “The Long Christmas Dinner” and Truman Capote’s “A Christmas Memory.”

The evening begins with a private reception at 6:00 PM in the newly renovated theater. We'll be ushered into the actual performance space where, later in the evening, a two-act play will come to life. The UMKC City Conservatory of music will entertain us with live music as we enjoy an Italian dinner and cocktails (cash bar).

At 6:45 we'll repair to the lobby so the tech crew can do their magic as they set the stage for American Holiday Stories. The music will move with us, and the cash bar continues. Shortly thereafter we'll return to the theater to find seats for a performance of two great American Christmas classics beginning at 7:30.

Here's more about the Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre's production of American Holiday Stories:

Act 1: In one continuous scene, Thornton Wilder’s "The Long Christmas Dinner" chronicles six generations of an enterprising American dynasty, weaving a seamless series of family Christmas gatherings into a poignant look at the joys and humor of family life.

Act 2: In "A Christmas Memory" Truman Capote recalls a childhood memory of an idyllic Southern holiday season when he baked fruit cakes, gathered holly and flew kites with the beloved, eccentric cousin who raised him and inspired him to become a writer. Finally, join us in the lobby after the performance for some Holiday Cheer!

Cost is $45 per person. As usual, tickets are nonrefundable. If your schedule changes you can give or sell your ticket to others.