Truman Capote, a longtime Sagaponack resident, left a lasting legacy on the East End. As the world celebrated Capote’s centennial in 2024, readers reflected on his literary genius and larger-than-life persona. In the Hamptons, he is remembered for the memories he created in a place he called home — and where his ashes were spread on Crooked Pond, his presence forever tied to the area.
This year, back by popular demand, staged readings of Capote’s holiday story collection will once again bring the author’s singular voice to life on a Hamptons stage. The collection, known for its quiet beauty and nostalgic look at childhood, continues to resonate with audiences.
Center Stage at the Southampton Arts Center will present staged readings of Capote’s “One Christmas” and “A Christmas Memory” from November 28 through November 30, with performances at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. The productions are directed by Michael Disher
Produced through special arrangements with and permission from the Truman Capote Literary Trust, the production brings to life the bittersweet, heartwarming and thought-provoking prose of one of the 20th century’s most celebrated American writers.
Set during the Great Depression of the early 1930s, the stories draw heavily on Capote’s childhood in rural Alabama. They follow young Buddy and his eccentric cousin, Sook, as they navigate two Christmases together and learn about honesty, love, loss and enduring friendship.
In “One Christmas,” Buddy spends the holiday away from his Alabama family and in New Orleans with his rarely seen father. “A Christmas Memory” serves as Capote’s love letter to Sook, who raised him and taught him kindness, generosity and the meaning of family.
Tickets are $25 for general admission and $20 for Southampton Arts Center members at southamptonartscenter.org. Southampton Arts Center is located at 25 Jobs Lane, Southampton.
Staff Writer on Nov 16, 2025