The McDade Page Places to go, People to be

Today is Jan. 6, Epiphany to the Christian Church. This is the day that the wise men supposedlyended a two year trek and arrived to see the Christ child. It is also the twelfth day of Christmas, so park that in your pear tree, and bring down the decorations. Epiphany is a time of excitement for me. This is where my new year really starts.

After Christmas each year I look forward to the Mississippi Theatre Association Festival. There is an anticipation of watching good shows, seeing old friends, watching the cut-throat competition and learning new things. My anticipation of this event is high this year; I am more involved and have more to do, plus it is in Natchez this year. Historically Natchez has a lot to offer, but I am going to be so busy that I do not get much of a chance to see the town.

My first visit to MTA was in 1986 and was not a very memorable experience. I think they had three shows that year, but I napped a lot so I can't be sure. There were no high schools yet involved and maybe two workshops, the whole festival started and ended on Saturday. Much has changed since then. Sporting 18 shows MTA has come a long way. Last year there were nearly 800 participates and more are expected this year. Workshops that expound on the "how to's" of theatre, award winning plays, Awesome vendors, plus a chance to meet theatre peers, this is what MTA is about. The air is filled with excitement. There has been so much planning going on this year that I have to admit I feel like a Magi heading somewhere of great signifigance, maybe not as important as the Christ child, but cetainly a chance for excitement.

So, if you havent been to a festival before, now is your chance.
Jan 15, 2009 - Jan. 18, 2009, an extended weekend of fun, food and entertainment in Natchez, MS. If you need more details contact the MTA website. We would love to greet and meet with you there.
www.mta-online.org

~Curtain~