By LeAnna Hamblin
Housed in an old church built in 1890 in Perry, Heritage Theatre has been providing quality community theatre since 1969, and Miracle On 34th Street, written by Meredith Wilson, is the perfect opportunity for this fine group of actors to bring Christmas spirit to their audience. Miracle On 34th Street has been performed for audiences since it first opened at the Schubert Theatre in 1963.
As the show opens, the excitement in the air is palpable as the crowds of people are awaiting the traditional Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The woman in charge, Doris Walker (Karlie Clark) is frantically trying to get things under way when she discovers that her hired Santa has gotten himself inebriated. Enter Kris Kringle (Dee Pace), the only man qualified to save the parade and Macy’s department store. Pace plays a very convincing Kris Kringle, complete with real whiskers and a jolly demeanor. But will that be enough to convince the precocious Susan Walker (Sadie Jeppsen/Camila Lucena) that Santa is real and Christmas miracles can and do happen? Jeppsen is a talent that shines onstage and is well rehearsed for one so young. Her vocals are clear and strong while still youthful, and her chemistry with K. Clark, her stage mother, is very believable. The point in the show when she truly makes the audience fall in love with her is when she meets with Kringle, after he is institutionalized, and instills in him the hope and faith he will need to overcome this great obstacle. Kringle goes on to share with Susan’s mother and the audience that, “Faith is believing in something even when your common sense tells you not to.”
Not only is the audience enraptured with Susan Clark, but Fred Gailey (Michael Clark) has found a soft spot in his heart for the young realist. He takes it upon himself to convince Susan that the magic of Christmas is for everyone. As Fred draws closer to Susan, his interest in her mother grows as well. Both single and eligible, Doris and Fred are determined to stay single and eligible. Their mutual disdain for one another fades as they realize they are slowly becoming attracted to each other. K. Clark and M. Clark have a natural connection onstage and, as real-life husband and wife, they are not afraid to show their affection.
This production is full of comedic relief by way of Daren Saunders, who plays Marvin Shellhammer, Greg Lemke, who plays Mr. Macy, and Abby Payne-Peterson, who plays Judge Martin, especially during the numbers “Plastic Alligators” and “My State, My Kansas.” All lend a lightness to this show through their comedic timing and physical antics. Overall, the ensemble works well together in bringing camaraderie to the stage. In the end, everyone is trying to defend Kringle, including Doris and Susan, who have had a change of heart about the truth of Santa Claus. Even the children gather to show their support for and belief in Santa.
Director Marilyn Olsen Whipple does a phenomenal job casting a wide range of actors, from the experienced to the novice. Due to the mixed ages of cast members, costume mistress Elise Woolstenhulme does an exceptional job in assuring that each cast member’s costume is appropriate for the time period and scene. Music Director Misa Findlay has brought out the best of the talented cast, especially during the up-tempo number, “She Hadda Go Back” and the timeless Christmas carol, “Pinecones and Holly Berries.” The limited stage space does not hinder choreographer Sandy Christensen from filling the show with creative choreography which highlights many talented cast members. Even the aisles are used for effective exits and entrances, which help the show run smoothly. Set designer Michelle McGarry creates a very effective backdrop complete with a skyline silhouette and storefronts on the side stages. While some sets feel a little overcrowded on the small stage, McGarry does an excellent job designing the scenes from the festive outdoors of 34th Street to the more intimate quarters of apartments and offices. And stage manager Amanda Bradford calls a flawless show, making sure the scene transitions are smooth and quick.
Miracle On 34th Street is a wonderful way for the whole family to feel the magic of Christmas. This talented group from a small community works tirelessly to bring to life a Christmas classic which, in my opinion, is one of the most heart-warming Christmas tales told.
Heritage Theatre presents Miracle On 34th Street, book, music and lyrics by Meredith Wilson, based on 20th Century Fox Picture, story by Valentine Davies, screenplay by George Seaton.
Heritage Theatre, 2505 US-89, Perry, UT 84302
November 30-December 22, 2018 Monday, Friday-Saturday, 7:30 PM; Matinee performances, Saturday, December 1, 8, 15, 22, 2:00 PM
Tickets: $10-$12
Contact: 435-723-8392
Heritage Theatre Facebook Page
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