This month’s cover celebrates the talented cast bringing holiday magic to life at the Canyon Theatre Guild. Featured are four of the standout performers from A Christmas Story, each capturing the warmth, humor, and nostalgia that make this production a beloved tradition. Their vibrant energy on stage, and in this issue, sets the tone for a season filled with family, laughter, and timeless holiday memories.
On Main Street in the heart of Old Town Newhall, the Canyon Theatre Guild is one of Santa Clarita’s most cherished cultural landmarks. With its warm, inviting presence and rich history, the theatre has long been a place where creativity thrives, friendships grow, and the magic of live performance brings the community together.
For decades, the Canyton Theatre Guild has been guided by leadership deeply rooted in both the arts and Santa Clarita itself—most notably Executive & Artistic Director TimBen Boydston. His vision, passion, and steady stewardship have helped transform the theatre into one of the region’s most respected community performing arts centers. His wife, Ingrid Boydston, an accomplished educator and longtime supporter of youth theatre, has also played an important role in fostering the Guild’s educational mission. Together, they have helped cultivate an environment where performers of all ages feel encouraged, supported, and inspired.
The Canyon Theatre Guild’s productions range from classic plays to beloved musicals, each one brought to life through the dedication of talented local actors, stagehands, designers, and volunteers. Their work reflects a shared belief that storytelling is essential to community life—something that brings people together in a way few other experiences can.
Beyond the stage, the Canyon Theatre Guild remains committed to education and outreach. Its youth programs give children and teens the opportunity to learn acting, collaboration, and confidence, while special workshops and seasonal camps open the door to emerging talent. The theatre also supports local nonprofits, participates in community celebrations, and provides gallery space for visual artists—further enriching the cultural fabric of Santa Clarita.
Today, the Canyon Theatre Guild continues to shine as a place where imagination is nurtured, memories are made, and the performing arts remain accessible to all. Its presence on Main Street is a reminder that community theatre is not just about putting on shows—it’s about building a home for creativity, connection, and shared joy.

photo by Joie de Vivre photographie

The Holiday Family Classic  “A Christmas Story” Returns to the Stage!

This season, you’re getting exactly what you wanted for the holidays! And you can share it with the entire family!
There’s a story waiting for you at the Canyon Theatre Guild… A Christmas Story!
Back in 1983, a little movie about one ordinary Midwest family became an instant holiday classic — filled with treacherous traditions, holiday chaos, lessons learned, and plenty of laughs.
Narrated by grown-up Ralphie, we return to his childhood in the 1940s — where carolers fill the streets, store windows sparkle with shiny new toys, and one kid has his heart set on the ultimate prize: the official Red Ryder, carbine-action, 200-shot range model air rifle with a compass in the stock and this thing that tells time!
From “triple-dog dares” and leg lamps to pink bunny pajamas, Lifebuoy soap, and that fateful “you’ll shoot your eye out,” Ralphie’s world is a merry mix of mischief, mayhem, and memories.
“Our audiences love this show,” says Artistic Director TimBen Boydston. “It’s a funny, nostalgic look at childhood and family traditions. Though it’s set in the 1940s, it still captures everything we love—and laugh about—during the holidays.”
“Co-Directing A Christmas Story is especially meaningful to me—my father introduced me to the movie years ago, and it quickly became a holiday favorite. Its humor and heart have stuck with me ever since.” Linda Thompson
This show is a celebration of family, nostalgia, and the magic of the season. We’re thrilled to share it with you and hope it brings as much joy to your holidays as it has to mine.
And the CTG magic doesn’t stop at the stage. Step into a lobby decked with twinkling lights, a towering tree, the scent of spiced cider, and carolers to welcome you home. Come for the show—leave feeling like the holidays have truly begun.
A Christmas Story runs November 28 – December 23 Tickets: $24 Adults / $20 Seniors (62+) & Juniors (-18) Call 661-799-2702 or visit www.canyontheatre.org