The Mrs. H.D. Dear Sr. and Alice E. Dear School of Creative and Performing Arts at Northwestern State University will present the 28th annual Christmas Gala Nov. 30 – Dec. 2 in the A.A. Fredericks Auditorium. Performance times are 7 p.m. each evening with a 9 p.m. performance on Dec. 2.

Tickets to all performances are $10. Northwestern State students, BPCC@NSU and Louisiana School for Math, Science and the Arts students are admitted free with a current student I.D. Advance tickets are available by going to capa.nsula.edu and clicking on popular links. Fore more information, call (318) 357-5773.

Matinee performances for area schoolchildren will be on Nov. 30 – Dec. 2 at 9 a.m. with noon shows on Nov. 30 and Dec. 1.

“The Gala is an important part of the holiday season in Natchitoches with more than 10,000 people attending annually. The shows are something both the audience and cast remember for years,” said Gala Artistic Director Corey Trahan. “We are proud to have this opportunity to showcase the outstanding talent in the School of Creative and Performing Arts.”

Trahan said the Gala will feature audience favorites the drum line, Rockettes and Toy Soldiers along with new ensembles and familiar showstoppers from shows such as “The Polar Express,” “The Nutcracker” and “Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit.” This year’s Gala will have animation, a newly designed set and a number of new costumes.

Performing ensembles include the NSU Chamber Choir, Gala Choir, Ballet Company, Drama Team, Jazz Orchestra, Natchitoches-Northwestern Symphony Orchestra, Demon Dazzlers, Rockettes, Toy Soldiers, Out on a Limb Improv Troupe, NSU Drumline, Music Theatre Ensemble and NSU Rifle Team. Guest performers will be faculty member Terrie Sanders, former NSU Artistic Director Jack Wann, staff member Wanda Lucas and Vic the Demon.