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REVIEW: Family and the future loom over short films ‘Three A.M.’ and ‘Pumpkin Pie’

Posted on January 15, 2025 by The Sleepless Critic

Whether it is at 3 am or all day long, it is a gnawing feeling that will not go away.

Both directed by Karin Trachtenberg, worry and anxiety take a front seat in short films Three A.M. and Pumpkin Pie where characters in two vastly different situations reach out for support in a time of crisis. Both films are approximately 11 minutes. Pumpkin Pie will makes its world premiere at the East Village New York Film Festival on Sunday, January 26th at Under St Marks Theatre. Click here for more information and for tickets. For further details about these two shorts, click here for Three A.M. and here for Pumpkin Pie.

Bobby Raps delivers a foreboding music score infused with chirping crickets on a night that is all too still at Three A.M. in a residential neighborhood. However, two mothers’ minds are reeling. This short drama tackles some harrowing troubles in contemporary society as these characters attempt to cope in various ways. One of the film’s best features is the apprehensive tone at the beginning that seemingly leads in one direction yet reveals another. Julia Trueblood as Tish and Sara Burd as Gwen admit why they can’t sleep in a snapshot that leave enough questions for a longer film. Barbara Blumenthal-Ehrlich’s introspective script does not pass judgment on who is handling the situation best, but banks on the emotional weight of this relatable piece.

Julia Trueblood as Tish in short film, ‘Three A.M.’ Photo credit to Karin Trachtenberg

Sara Burd as Gwen in ‘Three A.M.’ Photo credit to Karin Trachtenberg

Pumpkin Pie is a lighthearted, yet distressed look at life’s pressures drawing parallels to Three A.M. where two characters are dealing with their circumstances in different ways. Written by Jessica Moss with zany direction by Karin Trachtenberg, Jimmy Jackson’s peppy piano infuses Pumpkin Pie with a brighter but no less relatable tone as a holiday emergency threatens to ruin Thanksgiving according to Hilary Dennis as frantic and over the top Adelaide.

Hilary Dennis’s wild depiction of Adelaide is a scene stealer as Adelaide audaciously attempts to navigate entry into a closed bakery on Thanksgiving Day where pies are scarce. Trueblood is an impressive foil as sensible Margot, a baker who is counting on some peace and quiet which should be on every family holiday menu. However, Thanksgiving family dread is baked into every pumpkin pie and these two characters develop an interesting rapport as they discover that they may have more in common than they think. Nothing half baked about Pumpkin Pie and the final scene is invaluable to conclude this initially outlandish scenario.

Hilary Dennis as Adelaide in short film ‘Pumpkin Pie’ Photo credit to Karin Trachtenberg

Julie Trueblood in short film ‘Pumpkin Pie’ Photo credit to Karin Trachtenberg

Pumpkin Pie will makes its world premiere at the East Village New York Film Festival on Sunday, January 26th at Under St Marks Theatre. Click here for more information and for tickets. For further details about these two shorts, click here for Three A.M. and here for Pumpkin Pie.

REVIEW: Love and family drive a moving and powerful world premiere of ‘Did You Eat? (밥 먹었니?)’ presented by Chuang Stage and Seoulful Productions

Posted on November 30, 2024 by The Sleepless Critic

Family can be complicated. Some ancestors have passed away and maybe you would give anything to speak to or enjoy a meal with them one more time. Others you endure and it can be so emotionally draining, it is a battle to stay connected.

Featuring a special opening act concert performance by Sarah Shin on Wednesday, November 27 prior to Did You Eat? (밥 먹었니?), this particular evening presentation manages to explore both types of relationships.

Zoë Kim in Did You Eat? (밥 먹었니?) Photo by Maggie Hall Photography

Written and performed affectively by Zoë Kim and perceptively directed by Chris Yejin, Did You Eat? (밥 먹었니?) , a world premiere production from Chuang Stage and Seoulful Productions, is a moving autobiographical recollection on love and family continuing live and in person at Boston Center for the Arts in Boston, Massachusetts through Saturday, November 30. This bilingual one woman performance is 75 minutes with no intermission. The paper program not only offers details on the show, but also features a wonderful and fitting cookbook section on Korean comfort food. Click here for more information and for tickets which are limited.

Candid and engaging, Did You Eat‘s featured a special opening act performance by Sarah Shin. With a peach electric guitar, she paid tribute to her late grandfather who led a big life with a big family. With yearning vocals, she longs for conversations with him about her craft knowing what she knows now. Though the song might have been explored an octave lower, it is a lovely and personal number that resonates with anyone who discovers they have common ground with those who have come before them.

With rich accompaniment by Alison Yueming Qu, Shin also performed a raw and humorous song about the aftermath of a breakup enhanced by Shin’s soaring and unique vocals.

Accented by ethereal and shrouded pastel colored drapes and a multicolored painted floor, Did You Eat evokes a guileless innocence and Aegyo in Szu-Feng Chen’s cheerful and lively set design and costuming featuring braids and sunflowers, a bloom which symbolizes resilience. Katie Kuan-Yu Chen’s lingering and at times dreamy sound design with Michi Zaya’s distinctive projections and Ari Kim’s dynamic lighting illustrates a wide range of emotions from hyper vigilance to love at first sight.

A mother (Umma) who was not ready to become a mother but wanted to please her family and a father (Appa) who wanted to please his family and prove his manhood by having a son. Diving into the dysfunction and expectations set by a Korean family, Did you Eat is a multifaceted journey performed and recounted by Korean-American Zoë Kim in a stirring one woman performance. Her use of the second person perspective is part of what makes Kim’s story engulfing for the audience as she navigates the struggle she endured growing up and the repercussions it had on her psyche and well being.

A winding journey that is at times funny, haunting, harrowing, relatable and always powerful, Kim transitions each feeling with skill, physical prowess, and a natural fluidity as each scene intensely alters in tone. An earnest piece steeped in emotion, the production is enhanced by Christopher Shin’s striking chorography that varies from subtle to sharp and abrupt movements to interpretive dance. Kim army crawls, slices the air, and slides across the floor and yet also emits joy through childlike movements and a beaming smile.

The term Did You Eat? (밥 먹었니?) is inherently a phrase used in love language and how actions speak louder than words and yet words are significant and binding. Kim also longs to please her family and within its raw honesty through resentment, isolation, shame, guilt and seemingly impossible circumstances, shares a beautiful life lesson about identity, trust, self love and what it takes to shine.

Written and performed affectively by Zoë Kim and perceptively directed by Chris Yejin, Did You Eat? (밥 먹었니?) , a world premiere production from Chuang Stage and Seoulful Productions, is a moving autobiographical recollection on love and family continuing live and in person at Boston Center for the Arts in Boston, Massachusetts through Saturday, November 30. This bilingual one woman performance is 75 minutes with no intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets which are limited.

REVIEW: Well suited for the holiday season, The Huntington’s ‘The Heart Sellers’ a true Friendsgiving

Posted on December 12, 2023 by The Sleepless Critic

For some, the holidays can be the most wonderful time of the year and for others, the loneliest. What good fortune to find someone to make the holidays brighter.

Heartwarmingly and wistfully directed by May Adrales with Jenny S. Lee, The Huntington presents Lloyd Suh’s The Heart Sellers live and in person at the Calderwood Pavilion in Boston, Massachusetts through December 23. This charming show is 85 minutes with no intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets.

Judy Song, Jenna Agbayani; photo by T Charles Erickson

It seems like destiny that Luna and Jane should meet. On Thanksgiving Day 1973, imaginative Korean chatterbox Luna, exuberantly portrayed with an infectious smile by Jenna Agbayani, invites quiet Filipino Jane, depicted with reserved and humorous wit by Judy Song, to her apartment shortly after meeting that day. Not only do they happen to be wearing the same colorful coat from Kmart, but they also see a familiarity in each other that they cannot quite place.

Agbayani as Luna warmly exclaims, ‘We have nothing so it is not a mess!’ Scenic and costume designer Junghyun Georgia Lee’s modest one bedroom studio apartment impressively rewinds the clock to the 70s featuring wood paneling, a burnt orange couch, retro wallpaper and dated appliances. The apartment has quite a realistic and detailed appearance right down to the dingy surface on the sliding glass doors. Lee’s retro costumes add cheerful splashes of color to the setting.

Jenna Agbayani, Judy Song; photo by T Charles Erickson

This dynamite duo has crackling and good humored chemistry that make the show a treat. It is not only in what they say, but the way they communicate without words. Agbayani and Song exhibit sharp physical comic timing in an overwhelmed glance, awkward mannerisms, and relatable reactions to the other’s way of life. Song as Jane is exceedingly polite and timid, but her expressions often give away what she really thinks.

Both are immigrant housewives who have never heard of Thanksgiving before and it is endearing to watch them share a genuine interest in each other’s stories, dreams, memories, how they are adjusting to life away from home, and in their fervent attempts to celebrate together.

With more than a generous helping of heart and humor, The Heart Sellers also comes with a great deal of realizations and reflections questioning where these two women belong in their new world during a pivotal time. They are important questions still addressed today.

The Heartsellers stands as a lively, wonderful and worthy visit centered on friendship. Bring a friend, a date, or a loved one because this is one story meant to be shared.

REVIEW: The Wonder of ‘Phillis in Boston’ presented by Revolutionary Spaces

Posted on November 20, 2023 by The Sleepless Critic

What does a promising poet who is also a slave do to become a beacon of hope under seemingly impossible circumstances?

Anything she can and beyond.

Revolutionary Spaces presents original play ‘Phillis in Boston’ through December 3.

Based on a true story and in commemoration of the 250^th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party, Revolutionary Spaces presents Ade Solanke’s semi-immersive original play Phillis in Boston continuing at the historic Old South Meeting House in Boston, MA live and in person through December 3. With enlightening direction by Regge Life, this historical and educational drama runs 90 minutes with no intermission and without a bad seat in the house. Click here for more information and for tickets.

The world should know more about visionary, promising poet and slave Phillis Wheatley.

Phillis in Boston is simply staged surrounded by Old South Meeting House’s regal setting and embellishes Chloe Moore and Athena Parkman’s detailed and authentic colonial prewar costumes in lace, wool, and cotton. Phillis’s colorful and distinctive gown is a particular highlight.

Old South Meeting House setting of ‘Phillis in Boston’ Photo credit to Revolutionary Spaces

Set in late 1773, this groundbreaking, world premiere production delves into the lives of a group of dynamic individuals who set out to make an extraordinary difference at a pivotal time in history. Very likely taking place at the historic Old South Meeting House which is also celebrating its 300^th anniversary, Adreyanua Jean-Louis as Phillis, Bobby Cius as John Peters, Joshua Olumide as Prince Hall, and Serenity S’rae as Obour Tanner must ban together on a mission to be heard.

Adreyanua Jean-Louis as Phillis and Serenity S’rae in ‘Phillis in Boston’ Photo credit to Revolutionary Spaces

Named after a slave ship and at the center of this production is Phillis herself portrayed with optimistic integrity by Adreyanua Jean-Louis, Phillis in Boston offers a unique and heartfelt perspective of this courageous woman. In spite of her struggles, Jean-Louis as Phillis remains humble yet forward thinking with a constant vision of breaking through boundaries. Instantly likable and through powerful faith, Phillis sees that narrow path to success and ardently reaches for it. Not so sure is Phillis’s caring and genuinely loyal Rhode Island confidante Obour Tanner, delivered with an impressive mix of dry humor and solemn reason by Serenity S’rae. S’rae conveys some chilling and hard truths as she carefully counsels Phillis about pursuing this seemingly impossible dream. Intense and focused Prince Hall depicted charismatically by Joshua Olumide, and Bobby Cius as charming yet mysterious John Peters gradually reveal their own part in Phillis’s uncertain future.

Joshua Olumide as Prince Hall, Adreyanua Jean-Louis as Phillis and Serenity S’rae as Obour Tanner in ‘Phillis in Boston’ Photo credit to Revolutionary Spaces

While a show like Revolution’s Edge delivered immediate intensity, Phillis in Boston relies on a gradual and reassuring build, culminating in a powerful confrontation between Jean-Louis and Priscilla Manning as needy, grieving, stubborn and conflicted Susanna Wheatley. Jean-Louis’s nurturing nature towards Manning is multi-faceted but also enforced. The history of Jean-Louis and Manning’s complex connection comes to light in an enthralling, intense, and pivotal scene where both actresses are at their brightest. With Brendan F. Doyle’s versatile array of immersive sound effects and a notable version of Amazing Grace, it is difficult to imagine that Phillis of Boston could not have a significant effect on us all.

Bobby Cius, Serenity S’rae, Adreyanua Jean-Louis, and Joshua Olumide in ‘Phillis in Boston’ Photo credit to Revolutionary Spaces

Based on a true story and in commemoration of the 250^th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party, Revolutionary Spaces presents Ade Solanke’s semi-immersive original play Phillis in Boston continuing at the historic Old South Meeting House in Boston, MA live and in person through December 3. With enlightening direction by Regge Life, this historical drama runs 90 minutes with no intermission and without a bad seat in the house. Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW: The Company Theatre is up to magic and mischief in family-friendly ‘Matilda the Musical’

Posted on December 3, 2022 by The Sleepless Critic

Not even a Willy Wonka candy coated confection could properly prepare one for what the Company Theatre has in store onstage.

With book by Dennis Kelly and music and lyrics by Tim Minchin, The Company Theatre’s Matilda the Musical is a holiday-themed whirlwind of caricatured adults and rage-filled adolescence while at its core, an inspiring story of an extraordinary girl in a peculiar and unique world that could only come from renowned storyteller Roald Dahl’s innovative imagination. Add Lindsay Hoisington’s eye popping costumes that share their own story along with set designer Ryan Barrow’s striking, festive colors and Matilda the Musical made a refreshing debut from Company Theatre’s more traditional annual holiday fare.

Diana Lee as Lavender and Reese Racicot as Matilda Photo credit to Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

Inventively directed by Zoe Bradford with dynamic Music Direction by Melissa Carubia, The Company Theatre continues Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical live and in person at the Company Theatre at 130 Accord Park Drive in Norwell, Massachusetts through December 18. Click here for more information and for tickets.

With a string of renowned children’s books that includes classics such as James and the Giant Peach and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, it is easy to see award-winning author Roald Dahl’s trademark characterizations, sardonic humor, and peculiarities within a morally driven subtext delivered in Dahl’s Matilda, a novel published almost 35 years ago. Matilda went on to become a bonafide hit with children and adults and it was not long before a 1996 film adaptation arrived featuring Danny DeVito and his real life wife Rhea Perlman. In 2012, Matilda became a Tony award-winning Broadway musical before Netflix recently premiered Matilda the Musical featuring Emma Thompson around Thanksgiving. Like most theatrical adaptations, nothing is quite like the experience of seeing it live.

Mischief during the holidays in Company Theatre’s ‘Matilda the Musical’ Photo credit to Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

Expectations were skewed immediately with the darkly comedic and infectious opening number, Miracle where cute, wild, and blatantly naughty children zip around a Christmas tree fueled by Brad Reinking’s athletic, energetic, and fist pumping choreography. Keep an eye out for some amazing feats by Ben Cavallo-Smith and others.

Ben Cavallo-Smith and cast in ‘Matilda the Musical’ Photo credit to Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

Imagination and mischief run wild in Roald Dahl’s tale of an extraordinary girl making her way through a peculiar world. Roald Dahl tugs at the heartstrings in this absorbing children’s tale, but not before displaying a wealth of less than savory characters making Matilda’s life arduous. It is a darkly humorous tale guaranteed to delight children more than the grownups.

Annie Jones as Mrs. Phelps and Reese Racicot as Matilda Photo credit to Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

Clad in black and white, precious and precocious Matilda, portrayed with determination and quick wit by Reese Racicot, is one of the very few characters standing out in an ostentatious world where television is more important than cracking open a book. Racicot immediately charms from the spunky number, Naughty to mastering the heady lyrics in Quiet, punctuated by her light and airy vibrato. Racicot has a sweet rapport with Annie Jones as enthralled librarian Mrs. Phelps, who delights in Matilda’s significant and imaginative stories as well as Miss Honey, portrayed endearingly by Jennifer Beth Glick. With delicate and powerful vocals, Glick shines depicting Miss Honey’s quiet strength and good natured humbleness, especially for the tender and moving number, My House with Salvador Guillermo Garcia.

Brad Rafferty as Rudolpho, Emilee Dennis Leahy as Mrs. Wormwood and Jennifer Beth Glick as Miss Honey Photo credit to Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

The adults are about as tempestuous and spoiled as their children. Matilda’s scheming con artist father Mr. Wormwood, portrayed with a sneer and manipulative glee by Todd Yard is not to be outdone by his equally shortsighted, narcissistic, and ballroom dancing wife and Matilda’s resentful mother, Mrs. Wormwood, depicted by Emilee Dennis Leahy with the sort of flirtatious, chaotic humor reminiscent of Jennifer Coolidge. Accompanied by Brady Rafferty as egotistical Rudolpho, Leahy demonstrates limber dance moves and a wild cha cha in the shimmering and comically shallow number, Loud. Never have a pair claimed to know so much know so little. Oliver Dunn as Matilda’s conspiring brother Michael Wormwood seems to be following in their stealthy footsteps as Yard and Dunn open Act II with humorous improvisation and vaudeville inspired number All I Know.

Todd Yard as Mr. Wormwood and Oliver Dunn as Michael Wormwood Photo credit to Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

Matilda the Musical is not without its dark moments and that is exemplified in Matilda’s iron fisted headmaster, Agatha Trunchbull. A fearful and miserably barreling adversary depicted enthusiastically by Christie Reading, Trunchbull is a force to be reckoned with, but against these lively students, anything is possible highlighted by the brilliant and ironic number, When I Grow Up.

Christie Reading as Miss Agatha Trunchbull, Jennifer Beth Glick, and the students Photo credit to Zoe Bradford/Company Theatre

The Company Theatre continues Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical live and in person at the Company Theatre at 130 Accord Park Drive in Norwell, Massachusetts through December 18. Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW: Boasting two stellar leads, Central’s Square’s ‘The Half Life of Marie Curie’ full of inspiration and crackling chemistry

Posted on November 26, 2021 by The Sleepless Critic

For revolutionary physicist and chemist Marie Curie, not everything can be solved through a calculation.

On the verge of her second Noble Prize for Chemistry, anxious and introspective Marie Curie finds herself embroiled in a scandal and at one of the lowest points of her life. Quite literally bursting onto the scene is brilliant and charismatic electromechanical engineer and suffragette Hertha Ayrton ready to bring humor and optimism to what seems like a bleak situation.

Lee Mikeska Gardner as Marie Curie Debra Wise as Hertha Ayrton Photo courtesy of Nile Scott Studios

Brimming with crackling chemistry between Lee Mikeska Gardner as Marie Curie and Debra Wise as Herthe Ayrton, Central Square Theater opened their fall season with Lauren Gunderson’s The Half Life of Marie Curie continuing through December 12 at the Central Square Theater in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The show is 85 minutes with no intermission. Click here for more information and tickets.

The stage is deceptively serene for Lauren Gunderson’s The Half Life of Marie Curie. Lindsay Genevieve Fuori’s colorful, innovative, and functional scenic design comes to life as stirring sound effects and a mysterious and foreboding piano score by sound designer Elizabeth Cahill make an intriguing combination fused with Whitney Brady-Guzman’s dynamic and surreal lighting.

A production that picks up from the very start, these two driven pillars of science with contrasting personalities are a fascinating pair to watch and listen to their musings. Gunderson’s sharp script strikes a delicate balance between intellectual prowess and absorbing dramedy. They share their views on life, family, and work with wit, humor and candor, yet instinctually encourage each other forward with respect and admiration. Both are widows and mothers who struggle with how women were perceived in the early 20^th century, but their sheer determination and passion for science ultimately make an indelible mark on the world.

Lee Mikeska Gardner as Marie Curie and Debra Wise as Hertha Ayrton in 1910s swimwear Photo courtesy of Nile Scott Studios

Adorned in a lovely feathered black hat and flowing emerald green dress, Debra Wise brings gravitas, confidence, ego, and clever charm as Hertha Ayrton. From the moment Ayrton bursts onto the stage with a confident cock of her head, gleam in her eye, and cheerful intonation, a lightheartedness sets in to her passionate and outspoken persona as opposed to Curie’s darker sensibilities. Dressed demurely in a rich purple dress, Gardner skillfully embodies tense Curie in her careful and calculated movements. You can practically see the wheels turning in Curie’s constantly analyzing mind and consider the lengths she would go for the sake of her work.

Marie Curie and Hertha Ayron’s exchanges are no ordinary gabfests. From sexual politics to love to family and everything in between, Wise and Gardner, as different in their approaches are and as opposite their personalities, they understand each other as equals, colleagues, and kindred spirits. Celebrating each other’s triumphs and supportive in hardship, theirs is a true testament to unyielding and enduring friendship and it stands at the center of this auspicious and biographical story.

Directed astutely by Bryn Boice, Central Square Theater presents Lauren Gunderson’s The Half Life of Marie Curie through December 12 at the Central Square Theater in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The show is 85 minutes with no intermission. Click here for more information and tickets.

REVIEW: Featuring delicious food and eclectic charm, consider Boston’s ‘The Beehive’ before or after the show

Posted on November 2, 2018 by The Sleepless Critic

After spending Sunday afternoon at the Calderwood Pavilion for the Tony award-winning musical Fun Home, I had made reservations through Open Table for The Beehive restaurant right next door at 541 Tremont Street in South Boston, Massachusetts. It’s a charming and convenient place to enjoy after show cocktails, brunch, lunch, or dinner while featuring daily live music including jazz and tribute to famous musicians. Decorated subtly for Halloween and featuring a lit outdoor patio, The Beehive has unique charm and Bohemian décor in the South End on the orange line off of the Back Bay T stop.

At the time I made the reservation, the live band didn’t start until 8 p.m. The servers were friendly and asked about the performance I saw at the Calderwood. Pricing is a bit expensive, but the food is wonderful and can easily be shared. The artisan sour dough bread was seasoned with sea salt and topped with delicious honey butter. Our dinner dish, the half chicken was tender, flavorful and juicy mixed with carrot puree, bok choy, rainbow carrots, and olives in a peanut aillade. It was more than enough for two unless you prefer to take some home.

The Beehive is open seven days a week and located in the Back Bay, an area in Boston that features many theatrical options. The Beehive offers a special menu on holidays and are open on Thanksgiving. Take a closer look at the Beehive here for the menu, live music schedule, and much more.

After a night out, MET Bar and Grill presents the return of ‘Boston Hot Chocolate Experience’

Posted on November 19, 2017 by The Sleepless Critic

Sweeten the end of a concert or a night out at the theatre with rich chocolate. Whether hot or cold, it is an undeniable treat throughout the year. With the return of ‘Boston Hot Chocolate Experience’ starting Friday, November 25 and continuing through Valentine’s Day 2018 at three MET Bar and Grill locations in Massachusetts, chocolate has never tasted better. Click here for more information.

Exclusively at MET Back Bay, customers can indulge in an interactive experience with Tableside Smores. They can toast extra-large marshmallows at their own table and add graham crackers, milk, white, or dark chocolate. Hot chocolate options include Classic Hot Chocolate featuring vanilla chocolate, whipped cream, and mini-roasted marshmallows, Caramel Sea Salt with whipped cream and caramel drizzle, Espresso with Almond Biscotti, and White Chocolate Peppermint Hot Chocolate, featuring white chocolate, crushed peppermint stick, vanilla cream, and a candy cane. Each treat can be enhanced with Peppermint Liquor, Caramel Vodka, Bailey’s, and more.

These holiday treats are presented as ‘A Flight of Four’ experience featuring four miniature glasses or attendees can order one flavor as ‘One Big One’ presentation. Visit MET Back Bay in Boston and MET Bar and Grill in Dedham and Natick, Massachusetts. MET offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well as Saturday and Sunday Brunch. They also are available for private events and gift cards are available online for the perfect gift.

REVIEW: Massasoit Theatre Company’s ‘Miracle on 34th Street the Musical’ a faithfully-festive, whimsical adventure

Posted on December 15, 2016 by The Sleepless Critic

The cast of Massasoit Theatre Company’s production of “Miracle on 34th Street the Musical.” Cast as the Rockettes and a train conductor.

miracles-kelly-hines-and-austin-archabal

Photo courtesy of Jeanne Rocheteau. From L to R: Austin Archabal as Susan and Kelly Hines as Doris in Massasoit Theatre Company’s “Miracle on 34th Street the Musical”

It is easy to see why Massasoit Theatre Company selected Miracle on 34^th Street the Musical as part of its 50^th anniversary season. While holiday shows often delve into the true meaning of the Christmas season, Miracle also festively explores with heartwarming humor what makes one shun imagination and blind faith for solemn practicality. It also reminds the audience what makes faith in everything so precious. Directed by Nathan Fogg, produced by Mark Rocheteau, and choreographed by Samantha Brior Jones, Massasoit Theatre Company continues its run of Miracle on 34^th Street the Musical through Sunday, December 18. Click here for more information and for tickets.

Set in New York City on Thanksgiving Day prior to an impressive depiction of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Kelly Hines as Doris is in the midst of a crisis. The Santa Claus they hired for the parade is out of commission at the last minute. Enter Craig O’Connor as charismatic and whimsical Kris, who may be just what Macy’s is looking for. This family friendly, classic tale is further enhanced by its beautiful, uplifting score by Meredith Wilson, who co-penned another beloved musical classic, The Music Man with Franklin Lacey. Massasoit’s Theatre Company’s Miracle on 34^th Street the Musical delves into familiar carols such as It’s Beginning to Look a Lot like Christmas as well as catchy, playful, and original numbers such as She Hadda Go Back, a song reminiscent of Music Man’s memorable, comedic number, Trouble. Each number offers deeper and meaningful insight into each character as well as heighten the show’s inherent message without veering off course.

Kelly Hines portrays Doris’s irrepressibly determined nature right down to her poised chin. Protective and practical, Hines exudes a sweet chemistry with Austin Archabal as Doris’s precocious, but curious daughter Susan, especially evident during their harmonious number, Arm in Arm. Hines also shows a new and incalculable side to her when she meets Matt Torrance as personable, but disciplined Fred Gailey. Hines offers an impassioned performance, especially with the number, You Don’t Know.

Austin Archabal shines as Susan, demonstrating her mother’s spunk, but peppered with wide-eyed wonder. She has natural and touching chemistry with each cast member, but is most memorable with Craig O’Connor’s wise, whimsical, and with a certain twinkle portrayal of bearded and spectacled Kris, especially during the number, Expect Things to Happen.

With equal twinkle and charisma is Matt Torrance’s brilliant performance as Fred. With smooth, silvery vocals, natural tap skills, and personable nature, Torrance is captivating in each scene and takes the humorous numbers, She Hadda Go Back and Look, Little Girl to a new level.

In a three piece suit, glasses, and an often frenzied look, Alexander Hagerty adds a hefty dose of zany humor as enthusiastic, and at times, bumbling Macy’s store assistant Marvin Shellhammer. From his wild antics and outlandish jingles, Hagerty is a comedic scene stealer. Possessing a melodic alto, Athan Mantalos also delivers a forthright and commanding performance as R.H. Macy.

From the portrayal of iconic holiday figures such as the Rockettes and Raggedy Ann and Andy to name a few to extraordinary and imaginative characters, the entire cast embraces holiday cheer set to a lively, ‘50s city tone and enhanced by sets depicting colorful city skylines, bright, detailed Christmas decorations, and a wide variety of creative costumes by Jennifer Spagone. Above all, Massasoit’s Theatre Company’s Miracle on 34^th Street the Musical depicts just what love and letting go will do.

Massasoit Theatre Company’s 50^th anniversary season presents their holiday production of Miracle on 34^th Street the Musical continuing through Sunday, December 18. All performances are held at Buckley Performing Arts Center, 1 Massasoit Boulevard in Brockton, MA. Click here for tickets and for further details of their 50^th season. Follow them on Facebook for the latest updates.