Day: December 13, 2017

Theater review: ‘The Santaland Diaries’ at the Classic Theatre

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This is the last weekend to catch John Stillwagon as Crumpet the Elf on ‘The Santaland Diaries’ at The Classic Theatre. Photo: The Classic Theatre, used with permission.

The holiday season is in full swing and with it comes the holiday cheer and the same Christmas shows as last year. Thankfully, for anyone looking for something different ‘The Santaland Diaries’ is now playing at The Classic Theatre of San Antonio. This one-man show is based on NPR comic genius David Sedaris’ experiences working as an elf in Macy’s Santaland display during the holiday rush. John Stillwagon returns as Sedaris’ not so merry alter ego Crumpet the Elf with Bart Roush directing. The show is written by David Sedaris and adapted by Joe Mantello. There is still one weekend left to enjoy this cult classic with shows on December 15, 16 and 17. Performances are Friday and Saturday at 8p.m. and Sunday at 3p.m. Tickets may be purchased online or by phone at (210) 589-8450.

The show begins as Sedaris’ character ponders how he got to the point of considering applying for a job as a Macy’s elf. He comes into town looking to become an actor but now he is running out of money and is ‘$20 away from walking dogs’ so he applies for and is called in for an interview. What follows is nothing short of hysterical. He disappears offstage for a couple of minutes and comes back in full elf costume to share his shame and continue his story. His colorful descriptions of the selection process and eventual training give way to his impressions of everyone from co-workers to clueless tourists who do not speak the language but got railroaded into the Santa line. Some of the funnier moments include when he is so frustrated with the job that he muses that ‘Santa’ must be an anagram for ‘Satan’ and his portrayal of over controlling parents.

‘The Santaland Diaries’ is a must see comical and sometimes irreverent behind the scenes look at life at Santa’s village. John Stillwagon’s performance is lively and energetic and he manages to get the audience to sympathize with his plight. As a bonus, anyone familiar with One Life to Live will find his bit about the show especially funny. This show is not to be missed, especially  for anyone looking for an unconventional way to celebrate the holidays. On opening night, the audience consisted of adults of all ages, proving that it appeals to a wide audience, but it must be said that it contains adult language in case some find that questionable.

Disclaimer: Please note that ‘The Santaland Diaries’ is recommended for ages 14 and over as it contains mature content and language.

Theater review: ‘Irving Berlin’s White Christmas’ at the Majestic Theatre

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‘Irving Berlin’s White Christmas’ is now playing at the Majestic Theatre until Sunday.

Last night was opening night of ‘Irving Berlin’s White Christmas’ at the Majestic Theatre. The stage adaptation of the beloved classic film tells the story of two show business buddies who start out putting on a show in a picturesque Vermont inn and end up finding their perfect mates. Music and lyrics are by Irving Berlin with a book by David Ives and Paul Blake and it runs until Sunday December 17. Show times are 7:30p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 8p.m. on Friday, 2p.m. and 8p.m. Saturday and 2p.m. and 7:30p.m. Sunday.

 

‘Irving Berlin’s White Christmas’ follows Bob Wallace and Phil Davis from the Western Front of World War II to a Vermont inn where they put on a successful Christmas show and fall in love. With the first scene set in 1944 during a Christmas Eve performance put on by Bob and Phil, the audience is introduced to these lovable characters who were meant to be in the spotlight, “Happy Holidays/White Christmas.” The story fast forwards to 1954 where they perform on the Ed Sullivan Show and meet Betty and Judy Haynes, a sister act, “Sisters.” Their next stop was supposed to be sunny Florida but without telling Bob, Phil changes those plans to follow the sisters to Vermont. Upon their arrival, they are disappointed to find no snow but are determined to put on a Christmas show. The show goes on despite minor setbacks and they are rewarded with a “White Christmas.”

Perfect for a family holiday outing, ‘Irving Berlin’s White Christmas’ is full of dancing, romance, laughter and favorite familiar songs including “Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep,” “Happy Holiday,” “Sisters” and “Blue Skies.” The talented cast brings this classic story to life with Sean Montgomery and Jeremy Benton brilliantly chosen for the roles of Bob Wallace and Phil Davis. Show highlights include “Sisters” by Betty and Judy and “Blue Skies” by Bob and the Chorus while “I Love a Piano” features a fabulous tap dancing number and was the audience favorite. It all wraps up with “I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm” and a pleasant surprise for the audience. This family-friendly holiday show is not to be missed.