TOPSHAM — Topsham Public Library is set to host a free screening of the family Christmas classic “March of the Wooden Soldiers” at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, at 25 Foreside Road.

Also known as “Babes in Toyland,” this family friendly film features Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy as its central characters. Laurel and Hardy are widely recognized as the greatest comedy team in movie history, and this picture captured them at the peak of their popularity. Critical reception to this 77-minute movie was extremely positive, according to a news release from the library.

The film showing will be hosted by Topsham resident and Laurel and Hardy expert Peter Hanrahan, a lifelong Laurel and Hardy fan, who was first introduced to the team in the 1950s by his mother, Ruth Hanrahan of Keene, New Hampshire. Ruth remembers growing up in Athol, Massachusetts, viewing new Laurel and Hardy releases at the local movie theater in the 1930s. Peter Hanrahan has passed that love of the comedy duo on to his daughter Colleen Hanrahan, and grandchildren Michaela and Sean, who also reside in Topsham.

Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy, starring Stannie Dum and Ollie Dee, are delightful in their lead roles, and the film has remained a holiday classic for 90 years.

This event will feature complimentary popcorn and refreshments.

For more information call the library at 207-725-1727.

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