The production combines dramatic performances by actor Anthony Zerbe with acoustic music by Brooks, who will perform Christmas songs and other music appropriate to scenes of a western ranch winter.

Lime Creek Christmas was inspired by Joe Henry's novel-in-progress. Henry wrote Brooks' song "Belleau Wood," about Christmas Eve on a World War I battlefield. His western play includes scenes depicting the birth of a foal and a gathering of ranching families on Christmas Eve.

At a press conference October 9, Brooks said he has given up touring to devote time to fatherhood, so his appearance in Nashville represents a rare opportunity to see him live.

Brooks and Zerbe first performed Lime Creek Christmas at the WYO Theater in Sheridan, Wyoming, in 1991. They will return to Sheridan for a performance on December 8.

Zerbe's film credits include "Cool Hand Luke," "The Omega Man" and "Papillon." On television, he has had roles in "The Young Riders" and "Harry-O."

Proceeds from the show will benefit Gilda's Club of Nashville and the Opry Trust Fund.