'HOLIDAY VOICES' FEATURES STORIES OF DIVERSE TROUPE.

Byline: Daily News

VALENCIA - The College of the Canyons Theater Department will celebrate the holiday season with its wholly original production, ``Holiday Voices.''

Written and produced entirely by College of the Canyons faculty, staff and students, ``Holiday Voices'' takes a journey through a variety of holiday stories, both joyous and sorrowful, as seen through the eyes and lives of a diverse cast.

``This year's cast is very mature in terms of acting experience,'' said Susan Hinshaw, the department chairwoman. ``They've simply been a pleasure to work with.''

``Home and Hearth'' is the theme of this year's production. Ever Fecske, who played Mary Magdalene in College of the Canyons' recent production of ``Jesus Christ, Superstar'' and acted on Fox-TV's ``Boston Public,'' shares her experiences and understanding of the meaning of Hanukkah.

Ashe Stevens, a graduate of California Institute of the Arts and College of the Canyons student, tells the story of his abandonment by and eventual reconnection with his father during Christmas, while two students, one half-Mexican, one half-African-American, portray their individual journeys toward a greater understanding of cultures they hardly knew.

While many of the stories are tinged with sorrow, lively, upbeat songs and dance that ``Holiday Voices'' fans have grown to love are still present throughout the performance, as are children's songs and stories.

``Holiday Voices'' opens at 7 p.m. Friday, with additional shows at 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. All shows take place in room PE-110 at College of the Canyons. Ticket prices are $8 for general admission and $5 for students, seniors and children. Seating is limited, so reservations are suggested.

For information and reservations, call the College of the Canyons box office at [phone].