If you’re looking for a way to get into the holiday mood, Steel River Playhouse may have the solution. “White Christmas” featuring the beloved music of Irving Berlin, continues through Sunday, Dec. 20.
The story and music may seem familiar since the stage musical has been adapted from the Bing Crosby-Fred Astaire film “Holiday Inn.”
It covers a 10-year span, starting out on Christmas Eve in 1944 as Bob Wallace and Phil Davis perform for their fellow soldiers and jumps 10 years when Veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis have a successful song-and-dance act after World War II. Add their former general running an inn in Vermont, two singing sisters and the stage is set for romance, misunderstandings and a plan to save the day.
Anthony Vitalo as Bob Wallace and Jerald Bennett as Phil Davis, deliver some great song and dance routines and have believable chemistry on stage. Vitalo also serves as music director for the show. Bennett is a welcome addition to SRP. His smooth tones and equally smooth moves fit his character well.
Also having believable onstage chemistry are Sharon Eyster as Betty Hayne and Kate Nice as Judy Haynes, the sisters whom the guys are trying recruit for their show – and maybe more. The sisterly banter rings true and their duet “Sisters” is a highpoint of the show – twice – once when the girls sing it and then in the second act when Bob and Phil take it on for a hilarious reprise.
Carl Heyde sets just the right balance between a stern general and caring commander as General Henry Waverly.
Stealing a few scenes is Barbara Hannevig as Martha, the general’s assistant at the inn. She has great comedic timing and her songs “Let Me Sing and I’m Happy” and “Falling Out of Love Can Be Fun” with the sisters are highpoints of the show.
Another scene stealer is Olivia Reitz as Susan, the general’s granddaughter. Her version of “Let Me Sing and I’m Happy” delighted the audience.
The cast also features Vince Ali as Ralph Sheldrake, Sebastian Antonio as Mike, Charles Delaney as Ezekiel, Gilliam Williams as Rita and Courtney Boches as Rhoda.
The ensemble includes Beverly Albertus, Charles Delaney, Mallory DeForest, Lisa Heffner, Nancy Kadwill, Christie Lohr, Emily Reitz and Kaiden Roberts.
The real star of the show is Irving Berlin’s memorable music, whether sung by talented vocalists in the cast, or by the audience in a sing-along of “White Christmas” at the close of the show. “Count Your Blessings (Instead of Sheep),” “Blue Skies,” and “White Christmas” will put you in a holiday mood.
Steel River Playhouse’s production of “Irving Berlin’s White Christmas” runs through Dec. 20 at the playhouse, 245 E. High St. in Pottstown. Tickets for are $17 to $29 and available online at www.steelriver.org. Online ticketing allows audience members to select their seat, so purchase early for your best seating options. Groups of ten or more are eligible for a discount. For more information, call 610-970-1199.
