By Trevor Thomas Williams
White Christmas is a stage adaptation of the 1954 Paramount Pictures film of the same name. White Christmas has been a beloved holiday tradition since its theatrical release and still holds its place in the top 100 most popular movies of all time. Featuring the classic music and lyrics of Irving Berlin and a book by David Ives and Paul Blake, White Christmas dazzles and charms audiences with impressive tap and jazz numbers, and beautiful melodies that are sure to get stuck in your head. Regalo Theater Company adds to Utah’s holiday fun by offering White Christmas right in time for Christmas.
White Christmas follows Bob Wallace and Phil Davis, the show opening with the pair entertaining the 151st division with a Christmas Eve performance. Ten years after the war, the pair have become a successful performing duo, and they are looking for an opening act. Enter the charming Haynes Sisters Betty and Judy. With Bob charmed by Betty and Phil enamored with Judy, Phil and Judy hatch a scheme to join forces and play matchmaker with the unsuspecting pair. We follow Wallace, Davis, and the Haynes Sisters to a cozy ski lodge in Vermont, which we discover is owned by the men’s former commander General Waverly. The beautiful music of Irving Berlin guides us through a tale of friendship and true love as our leading pair sets out to honor their beloved World War II Commander.
Our four leading players carry the show with powerful voices and undeniable stage presence. Jared Saunders as Bob Wallace delights with his boyish charm and crooning voice. Ben Wear as Phil Davis is effortlessly suave, dancing and singing his way into the audience (and Judy’s) hearts. Regan Fausett as Betty Haynes navigates Irving Berlins’ score with a crystal clear voice and flawless technique. And Felicia Sandor as Judy Haynes brings the show to life with her gorgeous vocals and impressive dance moves. Other standout performances include Steve Winters as General Henry Waverly, who uses his limited stage time to the fullest extent, giving a rousing performance. Miranda Mobbs as Martha Watson, who serves up brassy belting and belly laughs every time she was on stage. And Lucy White as Susan Waverly, who sings Berlin’s score with the same ease and showmanship as her adult costars. The ensemble of the show enchants with powerful vocals and rousing dancing, each member a delight to watch. I found myself wishing I could watch the show again so I could focus on each and every ensemble member.
The fabulous choreography by Jessica Adams brings the story to life and has the audience on the edge of their seats breathlessly awaiting the next spectacular dance number. Music Director Noelle Conder leads the talented cast with precision, each harmony beautifully balanced and expertly executed. This was especially apparent in “Falling Out of Love Can Be Fun” where the Haynes Sisters and Watson sing in beautiful and flawless three-part harmony.
The design team at Regalo tie this show together beautifully. Costumes by Brooke Holahan and Colleen Carrasco transport the audience to the time period effortlessly, each costume beautifully designed down to the smallest of details. Hair and Makeup by Hannah Anderson is the delightful cherry on top of an absolutely fabulous show, proving why Anderson is a highly sought-after designer throughout Utah Valley. The Prop Design by Amy Broadhead is fantastic, each prop clearly researched and accurate to the time period. The Set design by Michael Carrasco is impressive, flawlessly taking the audience through the many locations in the show, and expertly painted by Scenic Painter Bryan Orr. Sound Design by James Ewell is executed with precision with each voice heard with crisp clarity, delivering the tight harmonies of the cast throughout the theater. Stage Manager Lindsay Schneider Barratt ensures the show ran smoothly, effortlessly guiding the stage hands through huge scene changes.
This fabulous team, helmed by the fantastic directors M. Carrasco and Colleen Carrasco, successfully pull off another amazing production, officially solidifying Regalo Theater Company as Utah Valley’s newest theatrical giant as they deliver another professional production at a community theater price point. It even snowed in the audience during the finale. Regalo Theater Company’s White Christmas is perfect for the whole family.
Regalo Theater Company presents Irving Berlin’s White Christmas.
Skyridge High School, 3000 N Center St., Lehi, Ut 84043
December 19-23, 2022 7:30 PM
Tickets Online:- Adults $10.00, Child (3-17) $8.00, Seniors $8.00
Tickets at Door: Adults $12, Child (3-17) and Seniors $10.00
Regalo Theater Website
Regalo Theater Facebook Page
Regalo Theater Company’s White Christmas promo reel
0 Comments