WHARTON, TEXAS – “A Christmas Memory,” a one-act play based on Truman Capote’s heartwarming story of the love between Aunt Sook and her nephew Buddy, will be performed on Monday, Dec. 8 at 7:30 p.m. in the Horton Foote Theatre on the Wharton County Junior College campus. Admission is $7 and benefits The Wharton County Junior College Foundation.

“A Christmas Memory” opened at Houston’s Alley Theater in 1982 and quickly became a holiday tradition. In the late 1980s, the production moved to Christ Church Cathedral where it has been enjoyed by lunchtime audiences ever since. This year marks its 20th and final year to be performed.

Set in the rural south during the Depression, “A Christmas Memory” is based on Truman Capote’s life as a young boy. The performance pairs 60-something Aunt Sook, played by Bettye Fitzpatrick, and 7-year-old Buddy, played by Charles Sanders. They are best of friends in a house full of adults where everyone ignores Buddy.

“I take him under my wing,” said Fitzpatrick of her role as Aunt Sook.

A member of the Alley Theater resident company since 1957, Fitzpatrick considers Aunt Sook one of her favorite roles “because it is so beautifully written…written in love of character by Truman Capote.” Her other favorite role is Ouiser in “Steel Magnolias.”

Sanders plays Buddy and four other characters in “A Christmas Memory.” He has appeared in “The Crucible,” “The Foreigner” and numerous other productions. Beth Sanford is director.

Fitzpatrick is looking forward to returning to Wharton since it has been approximately 20 years since she performed here in “Traveling Lady.”

Proceeds from “A Christmas Memory” will be used by The Wharton County Junior College Foundation to fund student scholarships, faculty development and academic programs. The show is appropriate for school age children through senior citizens.

For additional information, or to purchase tickets, call 979.532.6322 or 1.800.561.9252 ext. 6322.