The Garden Theatre will be housing “A Christmas Survival Guide” now through December 16, 2012. Last night’s premier was surprisingly entertaining, interactive, and intimate. Though at times a bit cheesy and overrun with Disney tactics, for those practicing a gestalt philosophy, the total package was satisfying and delicious.
New York City based Broadway producers James Hindman and Ray Roderick created and penned the pages to a sentimental satisfaction, sprinkling a pinch of Grinch to round out the evening.
Watermarked by lights, trees, and a simple stage homed by talented musicians, director Keith Smith’s ability to wrap presence and actors within an artificial atmosphere was tested ribbon-free. How did Keith score? Will let you know soon enough. For now, time to check out the sequence and the cast of five.
The evening was divided into two acts. The first act began with all cast members playing active and equal roles. As a group, not sure why or how, there’s chemistry and a wielded certainty that each member is sincere and belongs beneath the lights and that each member loves performing. The first three songs displayed this merriment to the fullest.
Caroline Drage was featured with her rendition of “All Those Christmas Clichés.” Though not my favorite number of the evening, Caroline proved beauty and voice can exist in one. To her credit, Caroline was awarded the “Best Female Performer” at the Orlando Fringe Festival for her role of Audrey in “Little Shop of Horrors;” an honor well deserving.
Kevin Kelly handled the next bit, “Silver Bells” with a unique twist, tone, and tempo. Oddly enough, it worked. For those with a Winter Garden Theatre history, you may remember Kevin from “Forever Plaid” and “Musical of Musicals.” An established local treasure, you can trail Kevin by going to kevinkellysings.com.
Act one encompassed a total of 14 songs, concluding with a surprise visit from none other than… Elvis. Backed by three ladies in daring outfit, Elvis (fulfilled by Alexander Mrazek) smoothed the audience, teasing his way to center stage with more than a rocking pelvis. Making his debut at the Garden Theatre, Alexander should be a staple within the Greater Central Florida region for years to come. Packed by a little crazy, he let the secret out of the bag: there was a candy cane in his pocket.
Gestalt effect defined: A German term often used in psychology to explain the “essence or shape of an entity’s complete form.” In other words, the whole is greater than the sum of the parts… and in this case, suits the situation.
For many in the audience, Act Two brought back disclosing memories as Amy Martin-Cole brought to life “The Twelve Steps of Christmas.” Unable to go beyond the eighth step, her voice, style, and humor placed this performance as another topper for the evening. Amy is an established actor who, for over 25 years, performed at Walt Disney World and is currently a casting director for the American Idol Experience at Disney. No doubt the spark-plug of the group, her smile shined brighter than any tree decorations illuminating the theatre or lining the streets.
Can’t place my finger on the exact reason why, but “Little Girl Blue,” sung by Sarah-Lee Dobbs out-paced all others and took over as my favorite without even trying. Perhaps the subtle mood change, ensnarled by loneliness allowed transference her place. Perhaps it was the outward display of vulnerability and lost hope which did the trick. Perhaps it was Sarah herself, who transformed each audience member into a personal sponge, taking in the emotions without boundary, only contradiction… which, I believe, this story successfully attempts to resolve. No matter the cause, Sarah is a keeper.
“An Old Fashioned Sleigh Ride” found Kevin, Amy, and Sarah Lee on a bumpy roller-coaster of a gallop as they sang, tossed, turned, and collided their way back to an adrenalin-free halt. The aggressive pace of the volley was a needed trip and one which was fruitful.
The evening concluded as all on stage jammed to “Everybody’s Waitin’ for the man with the Bag.” With a quenched crowd, overhead lights, and a comfortable exit, I found myself pleased to have attended the premier and encourage the community to support the arts, the Garden Theater, and visit “A Christmas survival Guide” while you can. For information on this and other events, contact the Garden Theatre directly at 407-877-4736 or visit their website at www.gardentheatre.org.
Still wondering about the score? I give Keith and each cast member solid thumbs up… and for those who track my trail, you already know my thumbs are not easily raised.
Danny Hufman
www.EducationCareerServices.com
West Orlando News Online, Event and Career Columnist
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