Cathy Dobson/The Independent

The motor coaches delivering visitors to Victoria Playhouse Petrolia’s annual Starbright Christmas show this week, isn’t just a sign the musical powerhouse is back for its 20th year.

It’s adding some jingle to the pockets of the owners of restaurants and local shops part of an annual Christmas economic boom.

This year, 30 motor coaches from all over Ontario and Michigan are booked to see the nearly-sold out show, says Callandra Dendias, program co-ordinator at VPP.

Nearly 7,600 people have bought their tickets to see one of 19 shows between now and Dec. 8.  That’s three more shows than last year to accommodate the ever-increasing demand for Starbright.

That’s 7,600 people who are likely to spend money on tickets, buy a meal and do some shopping in Petrolia.

Those who are bussed in are expected to spend an estimated $150,000 to $180,000, according to the Ontario Motor Coach Association.

“It’s a very good thing for Lambton County,” says David Hogan, VPP’s co-artistic director with David Rogers. “So many come here to see Starbright.  It’s become a glorious tradition to celebrate Christmas.”
Most shows are afternoon matinees to accommodate the motor coaches. “They either break up their trip somewhere nearby for lunch or they come in to town at noon for a 2 pm show,” said Hogan. “So there’s all that time for people to eat and shop. The whole community benefits.”

Hogan and Rogers started Starbright as a Christmas variety show at the Stratford Festival when they were company members there. It sold out even in those early days. 

When the two Davids (as they are frequently called) began working at the Imperial Theatre in Sarnia, they brought Starbright there for three years. At VPP since 2012, they are celebrating the production’s 20th year.

Thousands book tickets months in advance to ensure they don’t miss their annual tradition, Dendias said. 

The show is also a much-loved tradition for members of the Lambton Youth Choir who were invited to participate since Starbright moved to Petrolia.

“Every year is magical,” says Lambton Youth Choir director Diane O’Dell.  “You wouldn’t see anything of greater quality in New York City.”

All 31 members of the youth choir participate in Starbright, gaining invaluable stage experience, having fun and supporting one another.

This year, youth ages seven to 17 years, will perform five numbers including O Holy Night, which is part of the tradition.  They’ll participate in the spectacle that Starbright is known for, wearing elaborate costumes, and performing with some of the professional singers.

Starbright presents the carols and hymns closely associated with Christmas, but audiences also love the formal gowns, the tuxedos and the celebration of Canadian singers, said Hogan. “It’s such a show of vocal talent, but it’s also the glamour and beauty of Christmas.”

“It’s so much fun to be a part of it all,” says Julianna Grant, a Grade 12 LCCVI student who has been in Starbright with the Lambton Youth Choir for seven years.

“There’s definitely a lot of rehearsal time but it’s a great thing to commit to,” Julianna said. “I’ve learned how to have confidence on a stage and strengthened my friendships with so many girls.”

There’s great energy on stage with the junior and senior members of the choir, said her sister Ayleigh Grant, 14, who became part of Starbright when she was in Grade 3.

“It’s always fun and I know it brings joy to others who watch it.”