Irving Berlin’s White Christmas
Syracuse Stage
December, 2012
Ensemble
“I have often puzzled about what “sugarplums” were, but I think that the musical White Christmas, a combined production by Syracuse Stage and the Syracuse University Drama Department, has given me a pretty good idea. White Christmas is a bright show filled with music, laughter, and skilled performances, plus a multitude of beautiful costumes and attractive settings. But above all, as directed by Paul Barnes, and performed by a secure, talented cast, it has a feeling of relaxed connection with the audience. In short, it’s a treat for eyes, ears, and psyches.
“Probably Irving Berlin’s music has a lot to do with that. In a very meaningful way, in White Christmas Berlin’s songs become deeply felt dramatic utterances, and they help create character and situation. But Berlin had a wizardry in blending words and music, and in addition to being beautifully performed – whether in quiet moments or big production numbers – the songs are intriguing in themselves.
“David Wanstreet’s choreography gives the dance numbers, tap or otherwise, a feeling of lightness and relaxation.”
Neil Novelli
Syracuse Post-Standard
“If you’re hoping for a white Christmas this year, you don’t have to wait till December 25. Syracuse Stage’s production of Irving Berlin’s White Christmas rings in the season with holiday merriment to make the season bright.
“Syracuse Stage’s production of the classic brings holiday cheer for all with dazzling choreography, fun choruses, and a talented 30-member cast. Director Paul Barnes, who also directed Stage’s The Miracle Worker in 2011, crafted a wonderfully delightful holiday production for the second production of Stage’s 40th anniversary season.
“Aside from the Christmas carols, tap dancing numbers and comedic overtures, what really makes this show work is its genuine relationships and cogent portrayals of ambition, love and determination.
“. . . Barnes did a fantastic job directing this classic piece. With each scene, the stage was decked with viscerally enchanting scenery, and the 30-member cast, 12-piece ensemble gifted a charming and absolutely enjoyable production of White Christmas.”
Christina Riley
Greenroom Reviews
“With a gorgeous score by one of the great American song writers, Irving Berlin, this family friendly, old style musical is highly enjoyable and technically perfect, even if it occasionally suffers from lack of plot and story.
“Fluidly directed by Paul Barnes with fantastic choreography by David Wanstreet, White Christmas has a spectacular design team. Special notice should be made of costume designer Susan Branch Towne, whose sharp and original eye and flawless color blending do not negate her authenticity to the time period of the musical.
“Treat yourself to something special this holiday season and see White Christmas at Syracuse Stage.”
www.nytv.com
“Irving Berlin’s White Christmas is exactly what it should be: a sensational holiday feel-good experience. One that worships warm reds and greens, fervent Christmas trees, musings of snow and the cozy thoughts of sipping ‘hot cocoa.’
“For Syracuse Stage, the classic 1954 film turned Broadway musical marks its biggest production to date. With over 200 costumes, 30 cast members and a 12-piece orchestra, this show is truly decked out with cheery, seasonal pizzazz. Directed by Paul Barnes and choreographed by David Wanstreet, this production doesn’t miss a detail when transporting the audience back to 1954, small town Vermont.
“The story line is commonplace, and the romances seem whimsical. But that’s not really the point of this musical. The highlight tends to come from the fuzzy feelings that the Christmas songs induce; wrap it up with brilliant voices and sensational dancing, and the show is quite entertaining.
“Syracuse Stage’s rendition of the beloved holiday classic is vibrant and nostalgic. It’s the perfect Christmas card for the holiday season. Each scene is glowing, and the passion radiating off the ensemble is tangible.
“What really makes this show pop with holiday glam goes beyond the principles. Scenic designer William Bloodgood constructed multiple sets that reflected the era, the holiday and the feeling of the season. With warmness at the Columbia Inn and seediness at Jimmy’s club, the set is admirable and reminiscent of Christmastime.
“The costumes are a dazzling complement to the colorful set. Costume designer Susan Branch Towne performed a miracle: whipping up 200 period, stylish and vivid costumes. Each costume somehow echoed the 50s show business, yet reserved nature and grabbed a simple, seasonal sparkle.
“Perhaps the best part of this rendition of White Christmas is the show-stopping dance numbers. The ensemble, students from Syracuse University, was incredible. The tap, ballroom, and jazz numbers were crisp and together and an ideal gem of the show. The company brought dynamic spirit to the production and the marvelous tap numbers really stole the show.”
Central New York Broadway World