Swamp Gravy’s ‘I’ll Be Home For Christmas’ production opens Friday in Colquitt

COLQUITT — The ensemble cast at Swamp Gravy is serving up its second edition of Swamp Gravy Christmas plays based on a true-life homecoming and other stories during the month of December.

“If Only in My Dreams,” which takes its title from the classic Christmas song “I’ll Be Home For Christmas,” includes stories from a husband’s bumbling gift-giving to secret Santas to one mischievous father’s Christmas ritual. And those stories are gathered from the southwest Georgia region.

“Everybody has a Christmas story, and it’s amazing what will happen when you just start asking people,” Swamp Gravy story-gatherer Alida Ward said. “ It never ends up being the story you think you’re going to get. Just like families are different, everyone’s Christmas is different, so you always get a Christmas surprise.”

“If Only In My Dreams” features a mix of those true stories, Christmas carols, and one new original tune crafted by the Swamp Gravy music team.

This year’s new song is titled “Sounds Like Christmas” and is reminiscent of several Christmas memories told by cast members, with musical arrangement by long-time Swamp Gravy pianist Steve Hacker.

“It’s always so cool to create a new Swamp Gravy song,” Hacker said, “But to create a new Christmas song offers its own challenge, because you want to make something that feels like it has always been there, while also bringing our own Southern flavor to it as well.”

As usual, Cotton Hall’s concession stand will serve up its famous popcorn with seasonal drinks and candy also available. Theatergoers who arrive 30 minutes before the play begins will have the opportunity to experience the Storytelling Museum, gift shop, and grab popcorn and other snacks.

Tickets for “If Only In My Dreams” are $22 each and available online at www.swampgravy.com or by calling the Box Office at (229) 758-5450. Tickets are in high demand with many shows almost sold out.

Performances are scheduled for Friday and Saturday and Dec. 8, 9, and 16. Friday shows start at 7 p.m., and Saturday showtimes are at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. with a special matinee on Dec. 16.

To get the full experience, Swamp Gravy recommends wearing something festive for a warm and cheery evening to kick off the Christmas season.

“If Only in My Dreams” runs approximately an hour and 45 minutes with an intermission.