For Erin Mary Lynch of Landisville, the holiday season is more about giving than receiving. Lynch not only purchases Christmas presents for her friends and family; but she also aims to give back to her community through music and providing a message of hope.

"Faith and performance have gotten me through so many things," said Lynch. "The ability to pull people out of whatever day they're having and into a joyful and happy mood is so special."

Lynch was first introduced to the world of theater around the age of 7; when she performed in a Christmas show at the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre. Since then, she has starred in numerous productions across the county, returning to the Dutch Apple and first performing at Sight & Sound Theatres in its production of "Jonah" in 2012. "I was super lucky to grow up in Lancaster, where there are so many opportunities to perform," said Lynch, who is currently a member of the cast of "David" at Sight & Sound.

This was the first year that Lynch was the writer, director and choreographer of the annual "Wish" musical at Dutch Apple on Dec. 4 and 5. The musical, hosted by nonprofit organization Mychal's Message, raises funds in order to provide Christmas gifts and meals to families in Lancaster County. This year's show followed the story of a young girl whose family is participating in Wish to give to those in need. The show highlighted the importance of giving versus receiving through the eyes of its protagonist. "I was able to see all of the kids and families that were involved with the program because of the mission and not just the show," said Lynch. "It shifted my perspective."

The auditions for "Wish" drew young performers from all over the county, and those selected began rehearsing in the beginning of October. After the end of the show, the money raised was used to pay for the gifts and meals that were acquired by Lynch's older sister, Shannon Hickey, who is a member of Mychal's Message. The week before Christmas, the show's cast members and their families will deliver the gifts and meals to recipients at McCaskey High School.

Lynch wrote the script and worked on "Wish" in between rehearsals and performances for "David," often spending her evening dinner breaks writing the script, reviewing auditions and choreographing routines. This is the second year Lynch has written the script, and she plans to return as a writer for next year's show.