Irving Berlin's Magnificent White Christmas at Marriott Theatre: A Joyous and Heartfelt Celebration for Everyone
I've always had a deep fondness for the two timeless films Holiday Inn and White Christmas. These movies feature outstanding soundtracks composed by the legendary Jewish American immigrant Irving Berlin. With a repertoire of 1,500 remarkable songs, including the iconic 'God Bless America', Berlin also sparked a Christmas revolution with his deeply emotional and sentimental classic, 'White Christmas'. Few are aware that Irving Berlin experienced a personal tragedy when he lost one of his children to sudden death on Christmas Day in 1928. Despite this, Berlin, an immigrant, always conveyed his profound love for America through his music. Like in 'God Bless America,' he consistently expressed his deep belief in the nation's potential for goodness, unity, and global leadership. Marriott Theatre's White Christmas is a heartfelt tribute to Irving Berlin and offers a wonderful opportunity for audiences to embrace the Christmas spirit.
White Christmas revolves around two talented entertainers, Bob Wallace (Ben Mayne) and Phil Davis (Tyler Johnson-Campion), who form a successful song-and-dance duo after World War II. They encounter singing sisters, Betty and Judy Haynes (Jacquelyne Jones and Kelly Felthous), and follow them to a Vermont lodge owned by their former army commander, General Waverly (Rom Barkhordar).
With the lodge facing financial difficulties due to a lack of snow, the group decides to stage a spectacular show to attract guests and save the establishment. Along the journey, romance blossoms between Bob and Betty, as well as Phil and Judy. The film is filled with memorable musical numbers, including the iconic "White Christmas," and concludes with a heartwarming and festive celebration.
Linda Fortunato directs and choreographs this dynamic in-the-round production, seamlessly transitioning from one spectacular showstopper to the next throughout the evening. The show is further elevated by its four exceptionally talented leads, who bring delightful moments of romance, dancing and humor to the stage.
Ben Mayne initially portrays a slightly stoic Bob Wallace, the character originated by Bing Crosby in the 1954 film. However, as the performance progresses, Mayne’s sensitive acting beautifully reveals Wallace’s transformation from a man guarded and wary of love to one who is deeply and undeniably in love. Meanwhile, Tyler Johnson-Campion dazzles as Phil Davis, a role originally brought to life by Danny Kaye. His immense talent as a singer and dancer repeatedly brings the audience to their feet, with tap-dancing performances that seem to defy gravity and overflow with the exuberance of newfound love.
Jacquelyne Jones, playing Betty Haynes—a role famously portrayed by Rosemary Clooney—delivers a poignant and heartfelt performance in 'Love, You Didn’t Do Right By Me,' capturing the depth of female grief with striking authenticity. Together, Mayne and Jones enchant the audience as their characters fall in love, beautifully showcased in their renditions of Berlin's exquisite love song, 'How Deep is the Ocean.' While Jones treats the audience with a wonderful performance, Kelly Felthous shines as Judy Haynes, a role played by Vera-Ellen in the film version, bringing an infectious joyous energy and singing with great glee and charm. Felthous and Tyler Johnson-Campion, both exceptional dancers, leave the audience in awe with their expert hoofing in the hugely romantic and fun number 'The Best Things Happen While You’re Dancing.'
Rom Barkhordar shines as General Henry Waverly, Wallace and Davis’s retired commander, bringing a blend of humor and warmth despite his gruff exterior. Meanwhile, Robin R. McGee delivers a truly breathtaking performance as Martha Watson, Waverly’s dedicated helper and hotel manager, with her rendition of 'Let Me Sing and I’m Happy.' McGee possesses an indescribable vocal range, delivering her performances with the power and grace of a seasoned star who dazzles brighter than ever.
White Christmas is a delightful musical, brimming with wit and fun, featuring memorable song and dance numbers that truly leave a lasting impression. Among the numerous standout moments, the entire cast's rendition of “Blue Skies,” set against the breathtaking backdrop of real snow falling in Vermont, is a spectacular and uplifting highlight that will stay with me throughout the winter season.
I wholeheartedly recommend this timeless yet refreshingly vibrant production, brimming with Irving Berlin's endlessly inspiring and romantic music. It's perfect for audiences of all ages who wish to take a joyous journey into the past and fully savor the upcoming Holiday Season.
"Snow, snow, snow, snow, snow!"
