Viewers will have two options for enjoying The Theatre Factory’s production of “Christmas Gifts.”

The old-fashioned radio-style play will be livestreamed for three evenings, with the opening night stream also available to an in-person audience at the Oaks Theater in Oakmont.

Streaming time is 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, when actors will perform from the stage of The Theatre Factory in Trafford.

“Christmas Gifts” was adapted by David Little, former Theatre Factory artistic director, from two O. Henry short stories, “The Gift of the Magi” and “The Last Leaf.”

Little combined elements of both into “a contemporary, holiday story that highlights the importance of caring for people through the act of giving gifts,” according to the theater website.

In it, two siblings receive a book from their parents that introduces them to a group of friends from 1960s New York. The action plays out with the parallel settings converging.

The production is appropriate for viewers of all ages.

“It’s light-hearted but deep with inner meanings,” said Kaitlin Cliber, a cast member and Theatre Factory board member and social media manager. “It makes the audience feel like kids again, wondering what’s in the package you’re going to open and finding that the best gift we can have is being with friends and family and their support and unconditional love.

“It’s better than any sweater you can get,” she said.

Courtesy of Kaitlin Cliber The Theatre Factory’s livestream production of "Christmas Gifts" will be staged like an old-fashioned radio play.  

Actors will be masked and socially distanced on the Theatre Factory stage, taking their masks off only as they approach vintage-style radio microphones to speak their parts. The set will include other radio station design elements, including an “on air” light box.

Cast members include Brandon Farneth and Raegan Hochman as the siblings and Kevin Rabbits and Kaylyn Farneth as two of the New Yorkers. Director is Matt Mylnarski.

Courtesy of Kaitlin Cliber Kaylyn Farneth plays the role of Della in The Theatre Factory’s production of "Christmas Gifts."  

Cliber’s ties to both theaters initiated the collaboration with Oaks Theater general manager Alicia DiGiorgi. Along with performing on its stage, Cliber has been marketing and social media coordinator at the Oaks.

“Oaks Theater has always been home to me, and it’s near and dear to me,” she said. “(The theater) has always been dedicated to bringing downtown entertainment to Oakmont. This will allow the people of Oakmont to enjoy a little Christmas spirit.

“The Oaks has been trying to promote artists as much as they can (during the pandemic), and that drives us to make this show extra special,” she said.

Those interested in the livestream can find the link on The Theatre Factory website. Viewing is free, but donations are requested to support the production.

Those interested in viewing the livestream from the Oaks Theater can purchase the $10 ticket on that theater’s website. Only 50 tickets are being sold to maintain social distancing, and attendees must wear masks.

For patrons 21 and older, a ticket includes samples of holiday beers from Inner Groove Brewing.

To purchase drinks from the theater’s bar, patrons also will be able to buy a meal of pepperoni roll and chips provided by Oakmont Bakery. Snacks including nachos, popcorn and vanilla-cinnamon roasted nuts will be available.

Details: theoakstheater or thetheatrefactory.org

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