Act 1: The Candy Shoppe Opens for Business

Christmas is just a week away and there is excitement in the air. As the first act opens we are introduced to Mr. & Mrs. Elkin, the owners of a nostalgic candy shop. Mr. Elkin is pouring over “the books” concerned that they have not made enough money this year to pay the bills. Mrs. Elkin reassures him that God will take care of their needs, and the two have a sweet moment together before the store opens for business.

Children are eagerly waiting as Mrs. Elkin opens the door. It is immediately clear that the couple adores children and that the children feel the same way about them. They begin filling orders and sharing in moments of laughter and encouragement with the young ones.
Outside the store is a homeless man (Barnaby) who is jingling his cup, looking for some spare change. Mrs. Elkin has a kind moment with him as well, and invites him in to get warm. He thanks her, but declines her offer. Mrs. Milton also arrives to pick up her package.

With the store full of customer, Mr. S.C. Rouge pushes his way through a cluster of children who have gathered inside the door. "Children, children! Make way! Make way!" he shouts. Without any regard for the customers, he shouts at Mr. Elkin (or Mr. Arkin, as he calls him--seems Rouge has a rusty memory when it comes to names). He slaps a bill on the counter and announces he has been patient with the Elkins as long as he is willing to be. He is giving the shop keepers until closing time tonight to pay their bill or the shop will be shut down--permenantly! There is no room for negotiation, he wants his money, and he won’t wait another moment. Despite the devastating news, the Elkins remain full of grace, even after Rouge leaves.

The children have a silly moment (SONG: Make Way for S.C. Rouge) where they perform a number that pokes fun at the mean Mr. Rouge. Although the Elkin’s find the children’s reflection amusing, Mr. Elkin seizes a teaching moment to explain about God’s love for people and how we need to be salt and light to people like Mr. Rouge.

As the children exit the store, the Elkins share a moment together. "Salt & light," Mr. Elkin reminds himself. "No one said it would be easy," Mrs. Elkin lovingly embraces her husband.