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SALT LAKE CITY -- The hugely-popular 1983 film "A Christmas Story" has come to life as a play at Pioneer Theatre Company. The play's young actors are convinced you will like their version even more.
In the story, all Ralphie Parker wanted for Christmas was a Red Ryder BB gun. To play the role of Ralphie was all 11-year-old Mason Johnson wanted.
"The most appealing part was that it was at the Pioneer Theatre, one of the most … like the biggest theatre in Utah, and the most professional theatre. And when I got the part, I was really honored," Mason said.
For many, "A Christmas Story," the movie, remains a holiday favorite. But the young actors in this play beg to differ.
"I like the stage play more than the movie, and I'm not saying that because I'm cast in it. I'm just saying that because we've added a lot of quirky things," Mason said.
Eleven-year-old actress Ally Ioannides, who plays Esther Jane, said, "I like the script of the play better than the script in the movie. They actually did add some ongoing things, and I think it's way more funnier."
"The whole family can come and see our show at Christmas time," Ally added. "And it's nice. I kind of feel like every time I go to rehearsal it's always Christmas."
Performances of "A Christmas Story" run through Dec. 19 at Pioneer Memorial Theatre at the University of Utah. The company has just added another matinee on Dec. 18 at 2 p.m.
E-mail: cmikita@ksl.com
