By Jessica Neu
Thanksgiving is over, which means that the holiday season has officially commenced. It is never too early to enjoy some Christmas magic, which is precisely what the Comtra Theater will be delivering beginning Friday, December 2nd, with its production of Miracle on 34th Street. Based on the movie of the same name, the book, music, and lyrics are composed by Meredith Wilson, best known for writing The Music Man. Miracle tells the story of Doris Walker, a single mother who tries to prevent her six-year-old daughter, Susan, from believing in any sort of romantic or fantasy ideology. However, the Walkers’ neighbor, Fred Gailey, fancies Doris and tries to charm her by taking Susan to see Santa Claus at Macy’s, where Susan also happens to work. It turns out that Macy’s Santa may have a bit of extra Christmas magic and, in fact, be the real Kris Kringle. The events that unfold subsequently are enough to warm even the grinch’s heart. Audiences are sure to laugh but also marvel in holiday cheer with familiar songs such as “Pinecones and Hollyberries” and “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas.”
Comtra Theater’s production features Comtra veteran Carley Kelly as Doris Walker. Kelly’s previous Comtra credits include Legally Blonde, Elf: The Musical, and The Addams Family. Palmer Masciola will portray Fred Gailey in his 9th Comtra production, with previous roles in Spring Awakening and The Wedding Singer, among several other shows. Savannah Grace marks her second Comtra production starring as Susan Walker. Studying musical theater at Lincoln Park Performing Arts School, Grace’s previous credits include Cosette (Les Mis) and Annie (Annie Jr.). Twelve other performers complete this talented cast who have diligently rehearsed under the direction of Brandon Keller, musical director Amy Kapp, and choreographer Carly Phillips. Producer and Comtra President Cecil W. Teets noted that Comtra’s intimate theater in the round ensures that each audience member has the best seat in the house to see some of the brightest talents in Western Pennsylvania. In addition to the talented cast, Teets also noted the exceptional group of musicians who accompany the dynamic performers.
Meredith Wilson’s Miracle on 34th Street offers something for believers and non-believers alike. The Christmas spirit and idyllic fantasies that live in your heart are sure to come alive in this classic holiday production.
Tickets are available online or at the door, with the box office opening 45 minutes before curtain. Miracle on 34th Street can be seen December 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 8th, 9th, 10th and 11th. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday shows begin at 7:30, with Sunday matinees at 2:00.
Note: If you are in the Canonsburg area, Little Lake is also presenting their production of Miracle on 34th Street, directed by Erin Bock with Music Direction by Dom Carrola and Chorography by Christine Pittman with Jessica Tomsic as Doris Walker, Ernesto Mario Sanchezas as Fred Gaily, and Crystal Clydesdale as Susan. Their production runs from December 1st to 17th. More info here
Categories: Show Previews
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