By McKay Jenkins
If you are looking for a family friendly production to get you in the holiday mood, look no further than Sugar Factory Playhouse’s production of The Gift Of the Magi currently playing at the Midvale Performing Arts Center. This classic Christmas short story by O. Henry adapted for the stage by Jon Jory tells the story of Jim and Della as they meet, fall in love, and struggle to get by in early 1900’s New York City.
Unlike other Christmas shows, The Gift of the Magi is a grittier, more realistic tale of love and sacrifice. At one point in the production, Jim and Della both say “You’re not in a fairy tale; you’re in the Bowery” referring to the poor neighborhood on the east side of New York City in which they reside. This line perfectly encapsulates the experience of this show. It is not a fairy tale. It is real life. The production does not shy away from the realities of poverty. But, it is this bleak background that make the themes of love and sacrifice shine even brighter.
Melissa Lawyer is incredible as Della Worthington. Her comedic timing and spunky portrayal of the character bring a nice comedic relief to the piece. Scott Butler gives a genuine, heartfelt performance as James Young. His quirky characterization is charming and never comes across as a caricature. Lawyer and Butler have great chemistry and really help the audience feel the gravity of the situation the young couple is facing.
Other standouts include Marie Johnson as Della’s sister Dorothy and Debbie Keel as Madame Vodvaskaya. All ensemble members are committed to their roles even with many of them being tasked with challenging accents. Before the show starts, ensemble members are roaming the audience and interacting with the crowd. I was impressed by each ensemble member and their truly was no weak link.
Set design by Michelle Groves and Vic Groves is clever and surprisingly ornate. Sound design by Robbie Dalley is a particular highlight with clear sound throughout and fun music to welcome you in to the theatre when you arrive.
Music direction by Marla Hintze is spot on and it is obvious the cast has worked hard in learning their music. All songs are sung beautifully and songs with trickier harmonies are handled well. Direction by Karen Chatterton is realistic and believable. Chatterton does a wonderful job of finding the humor in a piece that could potentially come off as dreary or depressing. However, the moments of humor do not overshadow the serious moments and Chatterton does a great job balancing the tonal shifts of the piece.
If you are looking for a charming, poignant Christmas event to bring the whole family to, Sugar Factory Playhouse’s The Gift of the Magi is the perfect evening of theatre for you. Although unconventional in its grittier, more realistic approach to this Christmas tale, the central themes of love, sacrifice, and family are strong and serve as a great teaching tool for audience members of any age.
Sugar Factory Playhouse Presents The Gift of the Magi, by Jon Jory
Midvale Performing Arts Center, 695 W. Center Street, Midvale, UT 84047
December 6-8, 10, 13-15, 17, 2018, 7:30 PM Mon, Thurs-Sat.
Tickets: $5-8
Contact: 801-294-1242
Sugar Factory Playhouse Facebook Page
The Gift of the Magi Facebook Event
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