Emerson student on civic orchestra's holiday program

Regina Lee, age 12, is set to appear on stage with the Park Ridge Civic Orchestra in the Chicago area premiere of "Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus".

The sketch features famed Chicago stage and film actor Tony Mockus as the Editor, and Miss Lee as the young girl writing to the newspaper inquiring as to the truth about Santa. The drama serves as introduction to the orchestral work by composer Mike Runyan.

"This is a great way to feature one of the outstanding young talents from our community," says Victor Muenzer, Park Ridge Civic Orchestra's conductor. "Regina will be perfect for the role and we are delighted to have her with us."

Regina is a student at District 64 Emerson Middle School in Niles. She has been singing, dancing, and acting since the age of 3 and last year played the role of Molly in the school's production of the musical Annie.

Suites from Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker and John Williams' Star Wars open PRCO's holiday program, with A Cowboy Harmonica Christmas set by Mike Runyan that includes "I'll Be Home for Christmas" and the "Virginia" piece. "Let it Go" and "Do You Want to Build a Snowman" from the hit movie Frozen, sung by Linden Christ, round out the festive evening.

Ten terrific Frozen prizes including Elsa, Anna, and Olaf dolls will be given away to lucky winners in the audience. All concertgoers will receive a ticket that enters them into the drawing. A grand raffle prize of four tickets to Disney's Frozen on Ice show will also be featured.

The Park Ridge Civic Orchestra plays at the historic Pickwick Theatre in Uptown Park Ridge. Reduced ticket prices for seniors, free admission for ages 18 and under, and free parking are just a few of the amenities included in the PRCO experience. For more information and to purchase tickets, go to www.parkridgecivicorchestra.org, or call (847) 692-7726.