How to go
What: “A Christmas Story: The Musical”
Where: La Comedia Dinner Theatre, Ohio 73, 765 W. Central Ave., Springboro
When: Through Dec. 31; Evening performances (arrival time 5:30-6 p.m.) and matinees (arrival time 10:30-11 a.m.); Due to the holidays there are special Friday and Saturday matinees throughout December.
Cost: Adult tickets are $57-$73; Children’s tickets (11 and younger) are $30.
Tickets/more info: Call (937) 746-4554 or 1-800-677-9505 or go online to www.lacomedia.com.
Ralphie Parker can finally sing about his admiration for a Red Ryder BB Gun, thanks to “A Christmas Story: The Musical,” receiving its regional premiere at La Comedia Dinner Theatre through Dec. 31.
The stage show was nominated for three 2013 Tony Awards including Best Musical.
Faithfully based on the beloved 1983 film by Jean Shepherd, Leigh Brown and Bob Clark and set in 1940s Indiana, “Christmas Story” charmingly combines heartwarming sentiment with unyielding desperation. Ralphie’s spirited quest for an Official Red Ryder Carbine Action 200-shot Range Model Air Rifle takes its toll (he’s constantly warned “You’ll shoot your eye out!”) but he perseveres nonetheless in spite of comical predicaments at home and school. The goofy, endearing holiday mayhem encompasses a monumental triple-dog-dare beside a frozen flagpole, a kooky leg lamp, a fickle furnace, an unexpected visit to a Chinese restaurant, and a grumpy department store Santa Claus.
“The musical has many iconic moments from the film,” said director/choreographer Chris Beiser. “There’s Ralphie in his bunny suit, Randy eating mashed potatoes, the flat tire scene between Ralphie and his Old Man, and others. If you love the film, you’re going to love the musical.”
“I love the bonding moments,” echoed Karie-Lee Sutherland who portrays Ralphie’s Mother. “It’s nice to be able to be a part of the musical’s look at warmth and family love. This show is very funny and entertaining but it also provides a great message about home and family.”
Chris Kramer, who portrays the Old Man, considers the musical’s nostalgia factor a huge draw. As a fan of the film, he enjoys bringing his own spin to a role originally played to the hilt by Darren McGavin.
“This show speaks to a kinder, gentler time of innocence,” he said. “This show really takes me back as well. I remember getting my first BB gun as a gift in the ’60s. And it’s hard not to have Darren McGavin in the back of my mind since he gave such an in-your-face portrayal, but I really find the Old Man to be very loving underneath his tough exterior. As much as he yells at his kids and gives them a hard time he loves them. He has to show them who’s boss but he adores his family.”
“The Old Man is the one who comes through in the end,” Sutherland reminded. “He gives Ralphie the BB gun, which shows his love.”
The principal cast includes Matthew Hollon and Jackson Higgason as Ralphie, Avi Gilbert and Eric Petitt as Randy, Mark Reuter as Jean Shepherd and Holly Hathaway as Miss Shields.
In addition to a book by Joseph Robinette, Benj Pasek and Justin Paul’s delightful score includes “A Major Award,” “Sticky Situation,” “What a Mother Does,” “The Genius on Cleveland Street” and the lovely title tune.
“I hope audiences appreciate the warmth of this story,” Beiser said. “You really get a feeling of Christmas with this tale. It’s so neat for a family to be together on Christmas morning, and I hope audiences can relate. This show is for everyone.”
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