Spinning Yarns for the New Year: Jim Post bringing his 'Mark Twain' stage show to Theatre at the Center for week run

Just as the "Man in Red" is making his exit this month, the "Man in White" is ready to step in with stories for all to close out the year.

Accessorized with the trademark string tie, the white suit helps to launch the alter-ego of musician and actor Jim Post, who's made a successful second career becoming the legendary Mark Twain for his one-man stage show.

Theatre at the Center in Munster has booked Post for his first visit to perform his popular "Mark Twain and the Laughing River," running Tuesday through Dec. 31.

Described as "an audience journey of the American author and humorist's life using Twainian wit and wisdom paired with the triumphant music," Post said the show connects with people of every age.

"It's all about telling stories," he said. "And who doesn't love a great story?"

Twain's fame came from his way with words.

He called his childhood "the wellspring of his clearest inspiration" and this show reveals how the Mississippi River was the young writer's inspiration for everything, including his devilish temperament.

As for the references of his transformation into Twain being Post's "second career," he originally shot to fame after he wrote and performed the international hit song "Reach Out of the Darkness," which was prominently featured at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for eight years, and has been included on numerous movie soundtracks, including "Cheaper by the Dozen," "Mo Money" and "1969."

He said most people recognize it from what he calls "the catchy refrain," that extols: "It's so groovy to know, that people are finally getting together."

Post was a mainstay of the Chicago folk renaissance, centered at the Earl of Old Town club, along with the likes of Steve Goodman, John Prine and Bonnie Koloc. He has recorded 27 albums of mostly original material, both for general audiences and for young people.

But it's his theatrical presentations that are now his new love.

Nearly two hours long, "Mark Twain and the Laughing River" includes songs like "Mighty Big River," "Cat in the Box," "Riverboat Man" and "Uncle John's Farm."

His other stagings include shows like "The Heart of Christmas" and "Mark Twain's Adventures Out West," which he's performed around the country.

As for any worries about the challenges of paying tribute to one of the greatest storytellers of the past century, Post said he's never been concerned.

"Just by researching Twain over the years and reading about his style, it felt very natural to portray his personality," Post said. "And since it's all about using humor to relate to the audiences, he's a great fit and someone easy to embrace."