Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre concludes its 50th anniversary season with Irving Berlin’s White Christmas.
Based on the eponymous 1954 film (which starred Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, and Vera-Ellen), the stage version freely adapts the screenplay into a much tighter storyline, which includes a pared-down song list as well. The resulting show works just fine, albeit without the full-sized cast.
Eddie Curry directs, with choreography provided by Ron Morgan and musical direction by Terry Woods. The whole production has the feel of a ‘50s film, partially due to the costumes by Kathy Henry and the wig stylings by Andrew Elliot.
Elliott Litherland and Kenney Green-Tilford take the roles of army buddies Bob Wallace and Phil Davis, who have formed a very successful two-man stage team, while Deb Wims and Heather Patterson King play sisters Judy and Betty Haynes – also teamed up as performers. They all wind up in Pine Tree, Vt., to mount a show at a ski resort owned by the men’s former commander, General Waverly – played by Jeff Stockberger.
Graham and Megan Poteet get into the spirit of Christmas thanks in part to Beef & Boards production of Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. (Photo provided)
The four leads provide most of the big numbers in the show, with well-polished performances. Carrie Neal adds her many talents as Martha, the nosey former star who helps run the resort inn. Other featured performers include Logan Hill and Hallie Quinn as flirty dancers Rita and Rhoda, Brett Mutter as slow-moving stagehand Ezekiel, Matt Banic as slick army buddy Ralph Sheldrake, and Abby Kai Johnson as Waverly’s granddaughter Susan.
This combination of talents results in a festive Christmas celebration – one that will be enjoyed by all ages. Tickets for this offering are very limited, but any availability is outlined on the Beef and Boards website.
Bottom line: a solid cast gives bright performances for this charming 1950s-era program. Lots of Irving Berlin favorites are included in the score.
White Christmas continues at Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre through Dec. 31. Show times and reservation availability can be viewed at BeefAndBoards.com or by calling the box office at (317) 872-9664.
Note: As one B&B season ends, another is around the corner. The 2024 season kicks off with Menopause the Musical on Jan. 5, followed by a show that already has created quite a lot of “buzz” – Beautiful – The Carol King Musical – based on the life and works of this iconic 1970s star – which opens Feb. 8. Information about next season’s lineup is available on the website.
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