The Seneca Valley Thespians are performing “A Charlie Brown Christmas” this week at two elementary schools to obtain donations for a local food pantry.

CRANBERRY TWP — The Seneca Valley Thespians are putting on a holiday play for a good cause this week.

The high school acting troupe is performing “A Charlie Brown Christmas” and the price of admission is a canned or nonperishable food item that will be donated to the Southwest Butler Food Cupboard. Amber Hugus, adviser for the thespians, said they put on a charitable holiday show three years ago by performing “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” and it went so well they continued to do it.

“It's been very successful,” Hugus said. “We've received countless donations from the community.”

Senior Maggie Holl took on the job of directing the play this year as her senior project. She selected “A Charlie Brown Christmas” for its memorable characters, music and storyline.

The play follows the same story as the beloved cartoon television special. About 25 students are involved in the production, both on stage and behind the scenes, Hugus said.

“It is so cool to see the movie come to life on stage, and I love seeing what each of the actors brings to the park to make it unique and refreshing,” Maggie said.

The performances are held at elementary schools in Cranberry Township to make it more intimate and closer for families in the community to attend, Hugus said.

“This is a great thing to do with little kids so close to Christmas,” Hugus said.

In addition to directing the show, Maggie also choreographed sing-a-long numbers for audiences to participate, Hugus said. Sheet music will be handed out at the entrance so people can join in with well-known Christmas tunes throughout the show.

While directing took her off the stage, Maggie said it's taught her a lot about responsibility and organization.

“It has also been really cool to be on the directing side of the show, where as I am usually performing in them,” Maggie said. “I will miss being on stage but it is so fun to see it all come together.”

WHAT: “A Charlie Brown Christmas” performed by the Seneca Valley ThespiansWHEN: Shows start at 7 p.m.WHERE: Haine Elementary School, Tuesday; and Rowan Elementary School, WednesdayBENEFITS: Donations of canned or nonperishable food item will be given to the Southwest Butler Food Cupboard