Marriott Theatre’s ‘White Christmas’ Is An Extraordinary Dream
Irving Berlin’s White Christmas is a festive musical about two famous song and dance duos determined to put on a show to save a Vermont inn from closing. With the famous titular song, incredible dance numbers, and stunning visuals, this new show at the Marriott Theatre is a must-see!
The film of White Christmas is a staple of many households during the holiday season. Released in 1954 and starring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, and Vera-Ellen, this winter classic originated the song “White Christmas” that we all know.
In 2008, this film was turned into a stage musical using the songs by Irving Berlin from the film and with a new book by David Ives and Paul Blake. So while you might wonder why you didn’t see this show being promoted with the likes of Carousel and Annie Get Your Gun in the 1950s, it’s because it didn’t appear on the stage for many more decades. And right now you can see it at the Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire.
Irving Berlin’s White Christmas is the story of Bob Wallace and Phil Davis, two military men who become a famous song and dance duo. When they happen upon sister act, Betty and Judy Haynes, Phil and Judy become enamored with each other (while Bob and Betty are irritated by each other) and Phil secretly changes plans so they all end up in Vermont together.
Once in Vermont, where it is unseasonably warm and there is no snow, they realize that the inn where they are staying is owned by their former General and managed by former performer Martha Watson. Because there are no customers, Bob and Phil arrange for their former military company to stay at the inn and celebrate the General. In the end, it is a snowy Christmas with friends, happy couples, and a very famous song.
The Marriott Theatre show was created and performed with such precision that it is almost like watching a movie but with all the energy of a live production. It is extraordinary. The colors and flow of the costumes, the lighting that casts shadows in just the right places, the perfect tap performances, and the poise of the actors – it is a feast for your senses.
The costumes are magnificent. From Betty and Judy’s brightly colored, billowy dresses to Judy and the dance ensembles’ piano and notes outfits to the finale’s red dresses that resemble differently wrapped gifts, there is always something to look at and appreciate.
This production is dance-heavy in the best of ways. With incredible tap numbers by Tyler Johnson-Campion (a dynamic and charming Phil), Kelly Felthous (a cute and feisty Judy), and the ensemble, you can’t help but let out a hoot or two in appreciation.
Ben Mayne and Jacquelyne Jones (an earnest Bob and Betty) both carry themselves in the essence of the Gene Kelly era and Rom Barkhordar’s General Henry Waverly is the man you know who is a lot of bark, but soft and mushy inside. Robin R. McGee nails her numbers as Martha Watson and Michael Kingston has some very funny moments as smaller characters.
The entire cast is having a blast on stage. When the performance I attended began, I was a bit concerned for the actors because I could feel that the energy from the audience wasn’t quite there. It took exactly one dance number for that to change and suddenly, everyone was with them and “in it.” So, if you are feeling down or need something to engage in, this is your show. And if you are feeling great? This is still your show.
I highly recommend this production at the Marriott Theatre. It’s November and people are already decorating for the holidays, so give yourself a gift and go see Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. You’ll be so glad you did!
