On Stage This Weekend

   The holiday rush to the stage hits its peak this weekend, with five great shows to choose from! 

   Here's the rundown:

- A Christmas Carol - Jenny Wiley Theatre presents the classic play by Charles Dickens on Dec. 14, 15, 16 and 19 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 17 at 3 p.m. at the Jenny Wiley Theatre at 218 Second Street in Pikeville, Ky. 

- Annie - The Alban Arts Center presents the beloved musical on Dec. 15 and 16 at 8 p.m. and Dec. 17 at 2 p.m. at the Alban Arts Center at 65 Olde Main Plaza in St. Albans, W.Va. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for senior citizens and children.

- Madeline's Christmas - The Paramount Players present the musical on Dec. 15 and 16 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec 16 at 3 p.m. at the Paramount Arts Center at 1300 Winchester Avenue in Ashland, Ky. Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for students.

- The Phantom of the Opera: A Live Radio Play - Lawrence Burgess presents the reading on Dec. 15, 16, 22 and 23 at 8 p.m., and Dec. 16 and 23 at 2 p.m. and Dec. 17 at 3 p.m. at the WVSU Capitol Center Theatre at 123 Summers Street in Charleston. Tickets are $15 each. A portion of all proceeds benefits animal adoption and cruelty prevention.

- The State 35 Joytacular! - The No Pants Players presents the holiday, all-ages improv comedy show on Dec. 16 at 8 p.m. at the Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences at 1 Clay Square in Charleston. Tickets are $10 each or $5 with a new unopened toy donatio. The performance will help the Ghostbusters - WV Division's annual toy drive for the Children's Home Society of West Virginia.

   So get out there and see a show!