Celebrate the season of giving a little early this year with a terrific local theater experience, some great eats and drinks and the chance to make the holiday magical for a military child in need.

Joint Base Lewis-McChord Santa's Castle, a nonprofit organization that has provided Christmas gifts to the children of Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine, Coast Guard and active National Guard and Reserve families (E-4 and below) experiencing financial difficulty, has partnered with America's Credit Union (ACU), Stars and Stripes newspaper and the Lakewood Playhouse for a party and holiday toy drive like no other. By donating a new and unwrapped toy to this important cause, donors receive a free ticket to see the Lakewood Playhouse production of the Broadway comedy classic, Arsenic & Old Lace, on Thursday, Oct. 3, plus have the opportunity to enjoy a free pre-show party that includes games, prizes, food and beverages.

The fun begins when the doors open at 6 p.m. The show starts at 7:30.

It's easy to participate. Donors simply bring a new, unwrapped toy into any ACU bank branch. In return for each donation, donors will receive a free ticket to the show and to the party. Donors are welcome to make multiple toy donations to the cause.

Since 1994, the many volunteers at JBLM Santa's Castle have been bringing holiday joy to military families in need. Last year alone, the organization provided gifts to nearly 1,900 children from more than 800 families. The JBLM Santa's Castle team works diligently year round collecting age-appropriate new toys, games, art supplies, sports equipment and so much more for children and teens.

As the holidays approach, JBLM Santa's Castle has a beautifully appointed facility (the "castle") located right on base that houses the donations. The castle offers a festive and inviting environment and is carefully and lovingly tended by a team of volunteers.

The process works like this: the parents or guardians of eligible families have a set appointment time with their very own "elf" volunteer that helps guide them through the castle to select items for their child or children. All of the toys, activities, games, books and more are conveniently sorted by age. Learn more about the referral process and eligibility requirements at jblmsantascastle.org/Referral_Process.html.

For more information about JBLM Santa's Castle and how you can help, visit           jblmsantascastle.org or its Facebook page.

The Lakewood Playhouse, which recently celebrated its 75th anniversary, is honored to bring another exquisite theatrical production to the local community. Arsenic & Old Lace, penned by Joseph Kesserling, is a zany comedy that has delighted audiences for years. Returning to the Lakewood Playhouse stage for the first time since 1997, the play features the protagonist's discovery of his sweet elderly aunt's rather unusual and utterly surprising "hobby." Laughs abound in this dark and farcical comedy.

The Lakewood Playhouse is located at 5729 Lakewood Towne Center Blvd. in Lakewood. For more information about this production, upcoming productions and special events, visit lakewoodplayhouse.org.