The Gift of the Magi

By O. Henry

Directed by Ted McGinnis

The Gift of the Magi is a well-known short story by American short story writer O. Henry and first appeared in 1905. The story tells of a young married couple, James and Della Dillingham. The couple has very little money and lives in a modest apartment. Between them, they have only two possessions that they consider their treasures: Jim's gold pocket watch and Della's lustrous, long hair.

It's Christmas Eve, and Della finds herself running out of time and money to buy Jim a Christmas present. She wants to buy Jim a chain for his pocket watch, but they're all out of her price range. After a sudden inspiration, she rushes out. When Jim comes home from work, the two exchange gifts, only to find an ironic twist of events.

The story ends with a comparison of Jim and Della's gifts to the gifts that the Magi, or three wise men, gave to Baby Jesus in the manger. The narrator concludes that Jim and Della are far wiser than the Magi because their gifts are gifts of love, and those who give out of love and self-sacrifice are truly wise.

Produced by Reedsburg Players at CAL Center, 1100 S. Albert Ave, Reedsburg

Performances: December 2-4, 2016

Performance Times:
Dec. 2 & 3 @ 7:00 PM; Dec, 4 @ 2:00 PM

Ticket Prices: $10

Call 608-524-4626 for reservations or more information.