'Ugly Christmas Sweater' wraps Rust Belt year

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

The Rust Belt Theater Company will close its 2014 season with “The Ugly Christmas Sweater Revue” this Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 8 p.m.

The quirky, family-friendly musical revue features locally written comedy, music, poetry and dance, performed by actors clad in ridiculous holiday attire.

“All of the cast members try to outdo each other with these ugly, ugly sweaters,” said Robert Dennick Joki, director. “I’ve seen everything from neon fish wearing Santa hats to the Last Supper in rhinestones. It gets pretty outrageous.”

The cast includes Marisa Zamary, Nicole Zayas, Michael Deutschlander, Tyler Hanes, Joki, Jennifer Caventer, Murphy Sharp, Jada Beasley, Deja Beasley, Erica Perna, Mary James, Hunter Thomas, Spencer Farkas, Starr McClure and Monica Beasley Martin.

At each performance, the audience member selected as having the ugliest sweater will be awarded free tickets to upcoming Rust Belt productions. There also will be a gourmet soup and bread reception at intermission each night for patrons.

Tickets are $15 ($10 for students and seniors). For reservations, call 330-507-2358. Rust Belt Theater Company is located in Calvin Center, 755 Mahoning Ave., near downtown.