More News

Several homegrown institutions have teamed up this holiday season to raise both awareness and funds in a stylish, and delicious, manner.

Cakes for Cause and The Maryland Ensemble Theatre Board of Directors have partnered to create inexpensive, tasteful gift offerings in conjunction with this year's performances of "A Christmas Carol" at the Weinberg Center for the Arts in Frederick.

For the first time, attendees of the Maryland Ensemble's "Christmas Carol" adaptation can purchase Cratchit Crackers and Tiny Tim Cookies, produced by Cakes for a Cause.

Additionally, for the fashionista on anyone's gift list, shoppers may purchase a "Merry Bah Humbug Scarf," featuring embroidered artwork on a red fleece scarf.

This first-ever "Scroogewear" limited edition item was designed by award-winning graphic designer Jean Peterson, of Jean Peterson Designs. The Merry Bah Humbug scarf will be available throughout the play's run, Dec. 19-21, while supplies last.

Non-ticket holders may also make purchases in the lobby during the performances.

"Cakes for Cause is committed to being involved in our community," said Elin Ross, founder of Cakes for Cause, in a press release. "The MET is a perfect opportunity for us to reach a wider audience with our baked goods and our mission. Plus, we love saying, Cratchit Crackers."

The rosemary sage crackers, mini chocolate chip cookies, rosemary shortbread cookies and mini snickerdoodles are the perfect for giving as teacher gifts, hostess gifts or stocking stuffers.

Elizabeth Cromwell, speaking on behalf of the Board of Directors for the Maryland Ensemble Theatre, is also enthusiastic about the partnership. "Our board is very active and serves as a catalyst to further the success of the MET, and fundraising is an obvious way we can make a difference," said Cromwell in a press release. "‘A Christmas Carol' is a beloved tradition for many families around the holidays, and we are delighted to have come up with reasonably-priced, locally-made gifts to take home after seeing a wonderful show."

The Maryland Ensemble Theatre is dedicated to creating a positive environment where artists and audience share an exciting, emotional, thought provoking theatre experience for our times and our community.

Retail space for Cakes for Cause is slated to open in Spring 2009. A social enterprise bakery and café, it provides job-training and support to vulnerable youth in Frederick. The primary purpose is to give youth options for their future through vocational services. The role of Cakes for Cause is to help vulnerable youth internalize change—in their surroundings, through their employment opportunities, and within themselves.

Proceeds from the sales will help funding for both organizations.

For more information on "A Christmas Carol," call 301-694-4744. Visit www.marylandensemble.org.

For more information on Cakes for Cause, visit www.cakesforcause.org.