A children’s book written by a Benton Harbor-based author is now a stage musical being performed at the Ghostlight Theater in Benton Harbor. Last Christmas, we reported on the publication of Eleanor’s Very Merry Christmas Wish by Denise McGowan-Tracy. She tells us it’s the story of a ragdoll at the North Pole who dreams of finding a family.
“She wishes for a best friend and home of her own, and with great support and advice from the elves and her North pole family, she learns that wishing isn’t enough. Working is better, and of course, her very merry Christmas wish comes true.”
Eleanor’s Very Merry Christmas Wish was first published in 2017 and became a stage musical in Chicago in 2019. When the pandemic interfered with its continued production, Tracy and her husband moved to Benton Harbor and the book was republished. Then its stage adaptation was brought to the Ghostlight this year.
“It’s a 65 minute musical with seven original songs written by my writing partner Kathleen Butler-Duplessis and myself, and it’s loads of fun and has some heartfelt messages but also a lot of humor.”
McGowan-Tracy says the show is great for kids and adults alike with content aimed at all ages. It stars a mix of Chicago actors and local talent. Eleanor’s Very Merry Christmas Wish will be at the Ghostlight Theater through December 11 and tickets are available. McGowan-Tracy says it’s been receiving a warm reaction.
