Nathan Bankert, who is co-directing the Pequea Valley High School (PVHS) fall show with Mindy Lapp, always wanted to do a Christmas show, but the theatrical schedule never seemed to accommodate that dream. However, for this Christmas, Bankert will get his wish. "This is our last year in this school building," explained Bankert, referencing the new high school and intermediate school building currently under construction. "It's our last musical on this stage, and I have always wanted to do a holiday show."

Irving Berlin's "White Christmas" will be staged at PVHS, 4033 E. Newport Road, Kinzers, on Thursday, Dec. 5, at 7 p.m.; Friday, Dec. 6, at 7 p.m.; and Saturday, Dec. 7, at 2 and 7 p.m. Tickets may be purchased at http://www.pequeavalley.org or at the door 30 minutes prior to curtain time.

The show is based on the 1954 film starring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen. The plot focuses on two Army buddies - Bob Wallace, played by Landyn Waters, and Phil Davis, played by Alex Powell - and two dancing and singing sisters - Betty Haynes, played by Madeline Heverin, and Judy Haynes, played by Karis Marshall. The four characters find themselves spending the holidays at an inn in Pine Tree, Vt., owned by Gen. Henry Waverly, played by Max Stoltzfus.

With more than 20 musical numbers, including the well-known "White Christmas," the show is heavy with singing and dancing. Bankert knew his cast of 45 had the talent to perform the music well. Waters noted how different the music is from the last PVHS musical, which was "Newsies." "It's crooner style and the harmonies are really close, and there are those crunchy jazz chords," said Bankert, adding, "The singers are embracing the (Irving) Berlin sound."

"I love the music," stated Heverin. "I always loved listening to Rosemary Clooney, so to be able to play (her) role and sing her songs is so much fun to me."

While the cast members have readily taken on the difficulty of the singing style, the dancing - which Bankert said is required in at least half of the musical numbers - has presented more of a challenge. He lauded choreographer Katie Adams for her dedication to the process and complimented the students on their efforts. "These kids work extra hard to hone their skills in that area. I'm very proud of them," he said. Waters agreed, pointing out that some cast members have worked extra hard on the dances so that they can help others.

Heverin said the four leads are bonding and enjoying learning their parts together. "I just really like my character," said Powell, who added that he is having fun adapting to his role as Davis.

"Learning the dances and songs (is fun)," said Marshall. "It's really rewarding."

While performing a Christmas show near Christmas is a dream come true for Bankert, he and the cast are looking forward to sharing the joy of the season with audiences through the holiday classic. "Senior citizens will connect with it, but it's a good (show) for any age, because kids will enjoy the dancing, the lights, the costumes, the scenery, and the magic of the show machines," remarked Bankert.

"Enjoy the Christmas spirit," urged Powell. "Bring people together."