Clutching stuffed animals, kids came clad in their PJs, and watched, wide-eyed, as eight animated volunteer puppeteers from Heartland Forest told the story of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.
Children joined the puppets and sang along to Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and other festive tunes at the Port Robinson Community Centre last Thursday night.
A craft station and table filled with ornaments lay waiting. Each child was asked by the board’s volunteer and organizer Marty Wilson to make their own link for a paper chain to decorate the Christmas tree.
Wilson thanked the parents for all their continued support at various events held throughout the year, which helped fund the Easter Egg Hunt and children’s Christmas party, as well as ongoing renovations inside the community centre hall.
While the event was free, a jar was placed to accept donations for Heartland Forest.
“They have written and produced this just for us,” said Wilson, acknowledging nods in the puppets’ story to Port Robinson landmarks and businesses like the ferry, J. C. Auto, Bridge 12 Pub, and the Port Robinson Fire Department.
“All the children of Port Robinson are on my ‘Nice’ list,” said the Santa puppet.
This was followed by the real thing, as Santa Claus made an appearance, and tree-decorating commenced, accompanied by treats.
