As the holiday season approaches, Gainesville's Hippodrome Theatre is bringing back its holiday shows. Audiences will have the opportunity to get in the spirit with "A Christmas Carol" and "A Tuna Christmas."
Actor Rusty Salling has been part of "A Christmas Carol" since it began at the Hippodrome 35 years ago. This will be his 23rd year performing as the story's protagonist, Ebenezer Scrooge.
According to Salling, Scrooge is "one of the greatest characters ever written."
Audience members of all ages can enjoy the show, but Salling said performing for kids is especially enjoyable.
"The special effects the kids see in the movies are spectacular," Salling said. "But it's a little different when they're like five feet away from you and the special effects, and you're actually a part of them. We dazzle them."
"A Tuna Christmas," is another show Salling encourages people to go see. The show takes place in Tuna, Texas, and it involves two actors playing about 30 characters.
Up to two children under the age of 18 can attend either show for free if accompanied by a paying adult. Adults must also bring at least two canned goods or a new toy to get the deal that runs from Sunday through Dec. 4.
The canned goods will be donated to the Bread of the Mighty Food Bank, and toys will be donated through Toys for Tots.
"A Christmas Carol" and "A Tuna Christmas" will be playing from Nov. 23 through Dec. 23.
Cassandra Vangellow wrote this story for online.