ARLINGTON – Just like the old saying, “Don’t judge a book by its cover,” don’t judge a play by its choir.

That’s worth keeping in mind when Lifeway Foursquare Church presents “Christmas Choir,” a zany comedy at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 16 at Olympic Theatre, 107 S. Olympic Ave.

Christmas Choir, written by playwright Pat Cook and directed by church member Evonne Barron, is a fast-paced farce centered around an out- of- tune, under-rehearsed choir that has never sounded worse. The would-be singers have insincere reasons for participating – drumming up votes in the next city council election, escaping a noisy household and an over-zealous insurance salesman, among others.

Even the choir director has no faith. Just when it seems as if the mayhem and bickering can’t get worse, a young preacher steps in, Barron said. He helps the choir find harmony and the true meaning of Christmas, with each choir member getting a moment to bask in the spotlight.

For Lifeway Foursquare, performing a play is new ground. They’ve done skits and little Christmas scenes before, but never a play on the newly expanded theater stage.

“For the twelve-member cast, they’ve really done a fantastic job,” said Barron, who directed the play once in Missouri. “They sort of can sing, but only two of our players have ever been on a stage before. We hope there’s no stagefright.”

Proceeds from ticket sales will help unplaced DSHS foster children ages 11-18 in Snohomish County.

Admission is $5or $20 for a family of four or more. In lieu of payment, the church also will accept a monetary donation, or items such as new toys, clothing or toiletries, as older-aged foster children are often pulled from homes without a chance to grab clothing or other essentials. Church members want to send a message that others care about them.

For details go to www.facebook.com/lifeway4sq/