The Darien Arts Center is presenting a staged reading of Madeleine L’Engle’s The 24 Days Before Christmas on Saturday, Nov. 3 at 5 p.m.

Refreshments and a holiday craft for ages 5 and older will be available at 4:30 p.m. and a talkback takes place after the performance at 6:15 p.m. with Madeleine L’Engle’s granddaughter, Charlotte Jones Voiklis.

— an announcement from the DAC

The play was adapted for the stage by internationally produced playwright Jason Pizzarello and is directed by Carole Claps, director at Curtain Call.

In The 24 Days Before Christmas, the Austin family has a cherished tradition of doing something special every day counting down to Christmas — from baking cookies to decorating the tree.

This year is a stressful one for Vicky Austin as she’s cast as the youngest angel in the Christmas Pageant. Plus the family is preparing for the birth of a new brother or sister. Will the baby wait until January? Will Vicky mess up her big role? Will Christmas be ruined?

The love between the members of the Austin family shines as bright as a Christmas star in the heart-warming tale for the holiday season.

Filled with elves, carols, and laughter, this timeless adaptation of Madeleine L’Engle’s 24 Days Before Christmas is sure to bring a smile to your face and a tear to your eye.

Included in the DAC cast are Adelaide Meny, Luke Ryan, Natalie Treacy, Phebe Childs, Alana Arco Peck, Elizabeth Gonnella, Sofia Condon, Nick Condon and Louis Lehman.

Executive Director of Open Arts Alliance and DAC Theatre Instructor Rocco Natale and Middlesex Middle School and Darien High School Musical Director Tim Sorenson also take the stage in the production.

Reservations are recommended, as seating is limited. RSVP to DAC Theatre Director Maria Pizzarello at maria@darienarts.org. There is a suggested donation of $10 at the door.

Visit the DAC website or call (203) 655-8683 for more information. The DAC is located at 2 Renshaw Road, behind the Darien Town Hall.