The Old Man (Howard Swain), Ralphie Parker (Garrett Meyer), Randy Parker (Emilio Fuentes) and Mrs. Parker (Nancy Carlin) gather around the 'major award' in San Jose Repertory Theatre's production of 'A Christmas Story.' Photo by Kevin Berne
The "Nutcracker", "A Christmas Carol", "It's a Wonderful Life" and "How The Grinch Stole Christmas" are traditional Christmas theatre toddies, but add "A Christmas Story" if you haven't already.
This story, originally written for the movies by Jean Shepherd and tenderly transferred to a stage play by Phillip Grecian, brings a charming delight to children and warm, nostalgic thoughts to adults.
A solid cast of a few seasoned adults and an abundance of well-directed, talented children fill "A Christmas Story" with joy and offer memories of a gentler time in the '30s and '40s.
Dan Hiatt, Howard Swain and Nancy Carlin - the adults of the cast - reprise their roles in "A Christmas Story" with the giddiness of the times.
Garrett Meyer as Ralphie Parker, the 9-year-old who obsesses over a Red Ryder 200-shot carbine action air rifle BB gun, carries his role with confidence and creditability.
Emilio Fuentes, as Randy Ralphie's 6-year-old brother, steals the show with his delivery and timing. There is an old adage in theatre, (I think in originated with W.C. Fields): "Never work with a kid or a dog. They will always upstage you." Emilio does that without trying.
The meticulous direction of Chris Smith draws the best from the actors and produces a charming, amusing experience. There is a definite art to directing children and Smith has the touch.
As usual, the Rep's creative team brings in a show that's easy to hear, see and look at with Robert Mark Morgan's scenic designs, B. Modern's costumes, Lap-Chi Chu's lighting and Jeff Mocus's sound.
"A Christmas Story" is a wholesome, pleasant and perhaps a little corny moment in time that should be seen and savored. Children and grown-ups will adore it. Cynics might even get a little warm twinge in their heart and God knows a warm twinge might be just the thing we need in these uncertain times.
***
'A Christmas Story'
Where: San Jose Repertory Theatre, 101 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose
Through: Dec. 20
Tickets: $35-$69
Details: (408) 367-7255 or visit www.sjrep.com
Camille Bounds Camille Bounds is the Theatre and Arts Editor for Sunrise Publications.
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