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Regional Reviews: Phoenix Miracle on 34th Street: A Live Musical Radio Show Also see Gil's reviews of Disney's Beauty and the Beast and Sweat
Against the backdrop of the hustle and bustle of a 1940s radio studio, the show unfolds as the station's cast assemble to perform a live adaptation of Miracle on 34th Street. The actors use microphones, sound effects, songs, and vintage comedy hijinks to bring the tale to life. The plot follows Kris Kringle, an elderly man who claims to be Santa Claus, as he spreads goodwill throughout New York City. When his authenticity is challenged in court, young Susan Walker, a pragmatic girl raised by her no-nonsense mother Doris, who works at Macy's and hired Kris to be their holiday Santa, comes to believe in him, transforming not only her life but the lives of those around her. Adapted by Lance Arthur Smith from the 1947 Lux Radio Broadcast that featured cast members of the original film, which was based on the original story by Valentine Davis, the use of the radio format adds a playful layer, blending the heartwarming nature and magic of the story with the behind-the-scenes antics of a live broadcast. While the main plot points from Valentine's story are still present and the original songs by Jon Lorenz are fun and charming, the play does have somewhat of an identity crisis; the comical hijinks of the radio actors and the humorous commercial jingles and rearranged classic Christmas tunes they sing are often in stark contrast to the, at times, serious nature of the plot. Also, Lorenz has written a few songs that help flesh out the characters and advance the plot, which also seem slightly out of the norm when there are only a few of those numbers and the majority of the songs sung are familiar but rearranged holiday carols or nostalgic commercial jingles; it made me wonder if Lorenz wanted to write a full musical version of Miracle on 34th Street but changed his mind so only wrote a few traditional music theatre songs for the show. Fortunately, the Phoenix Theatre cast, under Chelsea Anderson's playful direction, are all excellent. They play dual roles, portraying both a radio performer and a main character within the story, with a few playing multiple roles in the radio dramatization. As Kris Kringle, Scott Davidson shines with warmth and wit, embodying the spirit of Santa Claus while delivering heartfelt moments that remind the audience of the importance of faith and kindness. Krista Monaghan infuses Doris Walker with a lovely balance of skepticism and vulnerability, capturing a woman learning to open her heart but also uncertain and guarded. London Cairney alternates in the role of Susan, Doris' daughter, with Parker Pitt, and she brings an effective blend of innocence and curiosity to the character, which makes her eventual belief in Kris all the more touching. As Fred Gailey, Doris' charming love interest, Matravius Avent exudes optimism and determination, providing a nice counterpoint to Doris' practicality. Amy Jo Halliday and Michael Kary shine as several comical supporting characters in the radio show with Halliday bringing bright vocals to the songs and Kary using several fun accents and comical body language to play a host of eccentric individuals. Steve Hilderbrand is warm and winning as the radio station's announcer, the narrator of the show within a show, while also providing lovely piano accompaniment and music direction. The entire cast under Anderson's effective direction bring levity to the show's framing device with comedic timing and enthusiastic interactions offering a delightful connection between the characters. The period-specific set by Douglas Clarke, costumes by Maci Hosler, and Josh Lutton's hair and makeup pull the audience back to the 1940s. Clarke's radio studio set, complete with vintage microphones, signage, and a small sound effects station (props by Alanna Maniscalco), is both functional and visually appealing. Hosler's costumes include suits and elegant dresses that evoke the era and the holiday setting. Miracle on 34th Street: A Live Musical Radio Show may be somewhat uncertain at times if it's a comedy, a musical, or a drama, but with a wonderful cast and rich creative elements, Phoenix Theatre's production is a heartfelt story and an entertaining holiday treat that celebrates the magic of believing. Miracle on 34th Street: A Live Musical Radio Show runs through December 28, 2024, at The Phoenix Theatre Company, 1825 N Central Avenue, Phoenix AZ. For tickets and information, please visit phoenixtheatre.com or call 602-254-2151. Adapted by Lance Arthur Smith Cast: *Members of ActorsÂ’ Equity Association, the union of professional actors & stage managers in the U.S. |
