“Irving Berlin’s White Christmas, the Musical” Broadway tour

Highly Recommended ****

Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas” is back in town for a short stay at The Cadillac Palace Theatre as part of the Broadway In Chicago season. Based on the film written by Norman Krasna, Norman Panama and Melvin Frank with the music and lyrics of the great Irving Berlin, this musical stage version has a book by David Ives and Paul Blake. The story is the same- a couple of song and dance men who served during World War II together, by strange events end up in a Vermont Ski Resort that is owned by their old General. He is in dire straights and they put on a musical to save the day…and the lodge.It is a pretty hokey story, but one that plays well, in particular at this time of year when people are thinking happy thoughts. Let’s face it, with the events that we read and hear about every day, we need as much diversion as we can get, and “holiday cheer” works! Live theater is the best diversion I can think of. Berlin’s music is more than enough to take our minds off the daily news. Songs such as “Sisters”, “Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep”, “How Deep Is The Ocean”, “The Old Man”, “Happy Holidays” , “Blue Skies”, “I Love A Piano” ( a tremendous TAP number featuring Phil and Judy along with the ensemble), “White Christmas” and many others. With a song book like this, who can ask for anything more?

These are the words I began last year’s touring show of “White Christmas”. The words ring true for this edition of the show. Meanwhile, there is another “White Christmas” onstage now. Just a bit south of the “loop” in Munster , Indiana , at Theatre At The center. A rousing production that has some of the same Qualities as the Broadway In Chicago version. The budgets are very different, so the sets and costumes for the BIC touring show are far superior on looks and with a full orchestra, Berlin’s amazing music is even more amazing. The special effects that BIC is able to add to the picture certainly makes the BIC version very special, BUT, the TAC version, in its own, more intimate version has some areas where they would win ( if this was a competition). IT IS NOT!

It is just that the owners of the rights, who had promised Theatre At The center an opportunity to put this powerful holiday show on their stage, kept their word and at the same time, the demand was very high, as we “need a little Christmas” even more than usual, so why not?

The touring sets are amazing and the direction/choreography by Randy Skinner is even better than last year’s tour. The Haynes sisters are played by Kerry Conte (Betty) and Kelly Sheehan (Judy), They are terrific and Sheehan is quite the tap dancer. The “boys” are played by David Elder ( Bob) and Jeremy Benton ( Phil). Benton is one of the best Phil’s I have ever seen and when he ad Sheehan dance together, they truly give you your money’s worth! If you truly love “tap” numbers, you are in for a real treat. Not only is ” I Love A Piano” one of the best numbers in the show, “The Best Things Happen While You’re Dancing” is a true classic for “tap” lovers.

The ensemble is made up of some highly energetic dancers who are stunning to watch. The General is handled with just the right touch by Conrad John Schuck ( he used to be just John Schuck, back in his TV days). Martha Watson, his right hand/concierge is played by Lorna Luft. Yes, Judy Garland’s “other” daughter. She is also terrific in this role. Susan, th General’s granddaughter is played in different performances by either Emma Grace Beradelli or as on opening night, Kyla Carter, who is adorable.

If asked to compare the two productions, I would have to say, the BIC has more glitz and glamour and the TAC production, a little more heart. Munster is more intimate and the tickets are less expensive as well as free parking, but if you love the glitz and glamour of the Broadway In Chicago series, you will have to hurry. You have until Sunday to grab “White Christmas the Musical” at the Cadillac Palace Theatre located at 151 West Randolph Street.

Remaining performances are:

Today at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Thursday  7:30 p.m.

Friday  :30 p.m.

Saturday  2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Sunday  2 p.m.  and then on the road. To follow where next: https://Irvingberlinswhitechristmas.com

Tickets are priced from $20- $110 and can be purchased at any Broadway In Chicago box office, by calling 800-775-2000 or at www.BroadwayInChicago.com

To see what others are saying, visit www.theatreinchicago.com, go to Review Round-Up and click at “Irving Berlin’s White Christmas, The Musical.

If you cannot make this one, Munster continues until December 22nd.