Connecticut’s professional theaters are offering a wide assortment of holiday themed shows this time of year. The first production to open is the delightful, family-oriented musical A Christmas Story. The show is based on the 1983 film of the same name which, in turn, was based on the writings of humorist Jean Shepherd. The production has a number of notable features:
1. A tuneful, fun-filled score by Benji Pasek and Justin Paul (of Dear Evan Hansen fame).
2. A talented lead in the young actor Christopher Riley as Ralphie.
3. A bevy of talented adolescent performers.
4. A pair of Bill Berloni trained dogs that, in their cameo appearances, steal the show (as well as the turkey).
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| Members of the cast of A Christmas Story. Photo by Diane Sobolewski. |
Jean Shepherd’s story is a remembrance of small-town living in the fictionalized Hohman, Indiana. Times were simpler in 1940, when the show takes place. Shepherd is portrayed with impish charm by John Scherer. He serves as narrator for the entertaining and comical memories. Joseph Robinette’s faithful book adaptation, centers on family life – the good, the bad, and everything in-between. And, of course, the main thrust of the show is Ralphie’s (Jean Shepherd’s alter-ego) desire for the ultimate Christmas present – a Red Ryder Carbine Action BB Gun. The problem – countering the prevalent parental opinion that by possessing the playful firearm “he’ll shoot his eye out.” Trying to convince his mom and dad, overtly and covertly, to purchase the greatest gift ever is the primary focus of the musical.
The show includes all the iconic moments from the movie:
1. A lamp shaped like a woman's leg.
2. The holiday turkey.
3. Santa at Higbee’s Department Store.
4. The frozen pole “triple dog dare” bet.
5. The bunny suit.
Christopher Riley of A Christmas Story. Photo by Diane Sobolewski.
Director Hunter Foster seamlessly guides the production with creative flourishes, brisk storytelling, and inventive embellishments. Choreographer Mara Newbery Greer stages energetic and inspired dance routines for such songs as “Ralphie to the Rescue;” “A Major Award;” which has Dad belting out the number backed by an ensemble grasping leg-shaped lamps; and “You’ll Shoot Your Eye Out,” with a sensational tap dance routine by a chorus of the young performers and Rashidra Scott (school teacher Mrs. Shields).
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| Rashidra Scott and members of the cast of A Christmas Story. Photo by Diane Sobolewski. |
The music and lyrics by Benji Pasek and Justin Paul, their first Broadway score, is lively, with a multitude of good-humored songs. They smoothly advance the plot and give each of the central characters a moment to shine. Standouts include “Red Ryder Carbine Action BB Gun,” “Ralphie to the Rescue,” “A Major Award,” and “Somewhere Hovering Over Indiana.”
The cast is led by Christopher Riley (Ralphie), who is an adorable and adept performer. A Christmas Story succeeds due to this young actor’s competence and flair. While Riley deservedly receives kudos, all the youthful performers in the musical are first-rate.
Jim Stanek, Camilo Velasquez Escamilla, Jenn Gambatese and Christopher Riley of A Christmas Story. Photo by Diane Sobolewski.
The adults in the production are led by a quartet of experienced thespians. There is the aforementioned John Scherer, who was a hoot in The Prom this past summer at the Sharon Playhouse. Jenn Gambatese, who has an impressive Broadway resume, imbues Ralphie’s mother with a quiet fortitude and loving family manner. Jim Stanek, another veteran of the New York stage, gives father, a rascally edge tinged with a warm and caring heart. His big, razzle dazzle production number, “A Major Award,” is one of the many highlights of the musical. Rashidra Scott’s role of Miss Shields is more of a featured role, but there is nothing secondary about her tour de force solo and accompanying hoofing in “You’ll Shoot Your Eye Out.”
Oh, and let’s not leave out the highly trained canines Gus and Jethro who’s every appearance is met with cheers.
Members of the cast of A Christmas Story. Photo by Diane Sobolewski.
David L. Arsenault’s Scenic Design captures all the unforgettable junctures of the film. Christopher Wong’s Lighting Design heightens the mood and playfulness of many scenes and production numbers. Nicole V. Moody’s Costume Design brings the early 1940’s to life as well as providing some luminous outfits during the dreamy dance routines.
A Christmas Story, continuing at the Goodspeed Opera House through December 29. Click here for dates, times, and ticket information.
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