Review: A CHRISTMAS STORY at Boise Little Theater

Unless you've been living under a rock for the past 34 years, you have seen the 1983 Christmas comedy film, A CHRISTMAS STORY. The classic film, based on Jean Shepherd's semi-fictional 1966 book, In God We Trust: All Others Pay Cash, has been adapted into a two-act play and a Broadway musical.

A Red Ryder Carbine Action 200-shot Range Model Air Rifle with a compass in the stock and a thing which tells time is all Ralphie Parker wants for Christmas. He spends the weeks leading up to the holiday trying to convince his parents, teacher, and friends that there is no other gift a young boy should get. However, the only response Ralphie ever receives is the warning, "You'll shoot your eye out!"

The play, like the movie, is filled with hilarious subplots. The mother can't seem to cook anything except meatloaf and cabbage. Younger brother Randy, hides in strange places, and will only eat when he imitates pigs. The Old Man enters a contest in the newspaper and wins a major award that he displays on the front window for the whole neighborhood to see. And poor Flick's tongue.

The play is narrated by adult Ralph, played by Dave Falcone, who takes us through the story scene by scene as he remembers it. Mr Falcone also plays a few bit characters in small scenes and flashbacks, and delivers his spot-on performance as if he was telling us his own memories.

Mother and the Old Man are portrayed by Jodi Perry and Darin Vickery. They are both lovely to watch. They have great comedic timing, good chemistry with one another both have the best stage faces.

The adults are outnumbered by the young actors in this show. As a youth theater teacher, I know the challenges that come along with directing kids, and Ms. Finley does a marvelous job. They are funny, clear, acting at every moment, only breaking a small smile or two when Flick announces his sore arm for the 100th time.

Along with Porter Barr, who portrays Flick wonderfully, other young actors to watch are Jaxon Holmes as Esther Jane, and Heath Toomey and Schwartz. As well as the Parker brothers, Mac Holmes as Randy and Liam Hodson as Ralphie.

A CHRISTMAS STORY runs until December 9th so instead of just watching it on tv for the next month, enjoy the classic show at Boise Little Theater. Fun for the whole family. Tickets are $14 for adults $11 for seniors/students and can be purchased on their website http://boiselittletheater.org.

**Just a note, when heading to the theater, leave a few extra minutes for the drive, as there is a lot of construction on front of the theater. Detour information can be found on their website as well. **

PHOTO CREDIT: Paul Budge

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