Players of the Stage, a Christian theater group, is presenting "The Prince and the Pauper" this holiday season.

Based on the classic tale written by Mark Twain, "The Prince and the Pauper" has been a favorite for generations.

Beginning Dec. 4, Players of the Stage brings the story to life with humility and humor.

Artistic Director Sharon Gerdes reflects on the play in her director's notes.

"Mark Twain's story of how two identical boys, born to different parents, into different social spheres, crossed each other's paths, is a heartwarming tale of friendship," Gerdes wrote. "It is also an invitation for us to consider the humanity of all people regardless of class, ethnicity, gender or religion."

There are 78 students involved in the production affording two casts for its performance.

The role of Edward the Prince is played by Reed Wiren in Cast 1 and Jacob Diem in Cast 2.

Wiren likes playing the prince-turned-pauper because his character is multi-dimensional.

"At first, I thought I was supposed to be a prince all the time," Wiren said, "But, I'm really supposed to be a prince and still be a young boy at the same time."

Diem, who played Tom Sawyer in a past production at POTS, said the role of prince is completely different for him.

"My last character was rough and rugged, whereas Edward is the proper prince," he said. "I really like my character gets to tell people what to do. It gives you a sense of power and authority."

Aaron Dubas portrays Tom Canty, the Pauper in Cast 2.

He attributes POTS with teaching him more than just acting.

"Acting here teaches you to step out of your comfort zone," Dubas said. "This place has given me some really good life skills."

Playing the part of the Pauper in Cast 1, Ethan Goonewardene, concurs with his fellow actor, and says Players of the Stage is an organization that accepts everyone.

"I enjoy the role of the Pauper because you don't have to really focus on your posture or looking good," Goonewardene said. "You just have to be yourself."

According to Gerdes, even though the Prince and the Pauper decide to discover what it is like on the other side, it doesn't take long for them to appreciate the life they always knew.

"Don't judge a man until you have walked a mile in his shoes," is one of the messages the director hopes the children and audience take away from this play.

Family, friendship and appreciation are the cornerstones for the young actors and actresses who bring their talent to Players of the Stage.

Emmerson Masenheimer, who plays Lady Mary in Cast 1 said her costume was made by her mother Aminah.

Like many others at POTS, siblings and family are involved in the production; and Emmerson's brother, Eli, is also part of the cast.

"We're like a big family, close knit and together," Masenheimer said. "I love being part of POTS and being able to show God's glory to other people."

Elizabeth Buonanno, who plays Lady Mary in Cast 2, agrees.

"I've made a lot of good friends at POTS and I love that all of our work goes to charity," Buonanno said.

Over the past decade, Players of the Stage has raised more than $100,000 for local charities. This year, the goal is to raise $15,000 to benefit the Allentown Rescue Mission.

Beth Barshinger, co-founder of the theater group, enjoys working with young people and encourages them to do good in the community.

"I tell the kids, none of us could ever write a check for that amount but when we work together we can do something big," Barshinger said.

"The Prince and the Pauper" will be performed 7 p.m. Dec. 4-6 and 11-13 and 2 p.m. Dec. 6 and 13, Living Hope Presbyterian Church, at 330 Schantz Road, Lower Macungie Township.

Tickets are free but reservations are required.

In lieu of a ticket price, an offering will be taken for the Allentown Rescue Mission.

To reserve tickets, email potstickets@gmail.com or call 610-310-7604.