By Kristen Weyer.
Who doesn’t love the charming and heartwarming classic, Miracle on 34th Street? I know I, as so many others, certainly do. As the holiday season is fast arriving, what better way to start the festivities than with a story that is a perfect blend of Thanksgiving and Christmas! Miracle on 34th Street the Musical has opened at the Argyle Theatre in Babylon and is sure to entertain and delight. With book, lyrics and music by Meredith Wilson, it is based on the classic 1947 movie of the same name with story and screenplay by Valentine Davies. Directed here by Evan Pappas, with choreography by Valerie Wright, this fun and magical show is perfect for all ages.
When Doris Walker hires a kindly, white-bearded gentleman to play Santa Claus for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade she has no idea what is about to happen. A cynical single mother, she has raised her daughter Susan to be nothing short of completely practical, with no fairy tales, or fanciful hopes and dreams allowed. The man she hired however, goes by the name Kris Kringle and claims to actually be the real Santa Claus, spreading his Christmas love and affecting the attitudes of people around him. As Susan becomes friends with him, and their handsome neighbor Fred Gaily, Doris is forced to reevaluate her outlook on life, faith and love.
With Christmas songs playing from the moment you enter the theatre, and announcements made by Santa Claus, you’ll find yourself getting swept up in the Christmas spirit from the moment you take your seat. Add to this the enchanting storyline and wonderful acting, and you have the fantastic experience of a classic come to life before your eyes.
This cast is a lot of fun to watch! Tony Triano portrays Kris Kringle with charm, affability and a spot-on look. The vivacious and spunky Susan is fantastically portrayed by Cordelia Comano and Raquel Livia Sciacca, alternately. Tiffan Borelli makes a brilliant Doris with a lovely voice and the perfect characterization of tough yet vulnerable. Ira Kramer is charming as the lawyer next door, Fred Gaily, from his boyish grin to his loping gait. The minor characters will have you smiling and laughing as well. From J. Ryan Carroll as Doris’ jingle loving assistant Shellhammer, to Christopher Carl as R.H. Macy singing on the witness stand, to the entire talented ensemble, you’re guaranteed to have a good time!
Great historical costumes by designer Matsy Stinson, and wig design by Peter Fogel, combined with Audrey Vuong’s clever set design, helps to transport us to a different era. A superb lighting effect, from designer John Salutz, during the opening scene of the parade adds to the fun and nostalgia. Musical Director Jeff Cox and all the musicians performed beautifully. When a story transcends generations, and continues to appeal throughout the decades it is obviously something very special. Miracle on 34th Street is one of these special tales, and should be enjoyed by young and old for years to come. So grab grandparents and kids, parents and aunts, friends and family, and head to the Argyle to start your holiday season with Miracle on 34th Street.