‘How the Drag Queen Stole Christmas’

‘How the Drag Queen Stole Christmas’

The Rust Belt Theater Company will present the 13th annual production of its original musical “How the Drag Queen Stole Christmas” for six performances: Friday and Saturday, and also Dec. 7, 8, 14 and 15. All shows start at 8 p.m. at Calvin Center, 755 Mahoning Ave., Youngstown. There will also be a midnight performance Dec. 15. An off-the-wall retelling of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” the musical tells the story of Starrlet O’Hara, a tyrant drag queen who is visited by three ghostly divas on Christmas Eve. Written and composed by Robert Dennick Joki and Josh Taylor, the show is updated each year to lampoon politics, current events and pop culture. Joki also plays Starrlet (above). This year’s run is dedicated in loving memory to Youngstown State University Prof. Ray Beiersdorfer, who was involved with the production for many years before he died in October. Beiersdorfer handled the nightly raffle and sold tickets at every performance. Each performance will include a complimentary wine and cheese reception, and “Starrlet’s Workshop,” a market of works by local artists. As always, the production will also raise funds for local charities during intermission. All tickets are $15. For reservations, call 330-507-2358.