Review: WHITE CHRISTMAS at The Noel S. Ruiz Theatre

The holidays came early this year to the Noel S. Ruiz Theatre in Oakdale as they present the blissful Irving Berlin tuner "White Christmas" through December 18. This cheerful old fashioned Broadway musical is based on the classic Paramount motion picture starring Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye as song and dance men searching for stardom while looking for love on the way. Misunderstandings, mayhem, and mountains of mistletoe all ensure an endearing love story and the happiest holiday for all.

With a simple boy meets girl love story and a familiar score including "Happy Holidays," "Blue Skies," and of course the ever popular "White Christmas," this picture perfect musical is full of charming performances, exhilarating choreography, and beautiful stage design. Brian Gill and Bobby Peterson are both outstanding as the leading men Bob Wallace and Phil Davis. Mr. Gill's singing voice is reminiscent of the old time crooners of yesteryear and boy oh boy can Mr. Peterson dance! Watch him master the stage with his outstanding fancy footwork and breathtaking energy. Both Katie Ferretti and Bailey Whitney as the Haynes sisters are terrific as well. All four of these stars are triple threats and are amazing to watch.

The standout performance in this production is given by the hysterical Anne Marie Finnie. Her breakout performance as Martha Watson had the audience in stitches. Her explosive voice and comic chops filled the theatre with rousing applause and infectious laughter. Young Dori Ahlgrim is an adorable Susan Waverly who graces the stage and brings joy to everyone! As always, Ryan Cavanagh, Kate Apostolico, Brendan Noble, and especially Andrew Murano are perfectly marvelous.

PatRick Grossman expertly directed a fine cast and certainly gave each actor their opportunity to shimmer and shine. Choreographer M.E. Junge maintained tradition and recreated period steps while putting her own creative spin on them. The tap dancing alone is worth the price of the ticket! Costumer Ronald Green III appropriately made each rosy performer look like they stepped out of a vintage Christmas card.

This brilliant production is a love letter to musical theater and reminds us of a much simpler time where the biggest concern was not what time Target would open on Thanksgiving day but whether or not it would be a white Christmas. Santa Claus certainly delivered early this year and gave us the best Christmas present ever!

Irving Berlins' A White Christmas is presented by The Noel S. Ruiz Theatre of Oakdale, Long Island through December 18. For more information and to purchase tickets, please call 631-218-2810 or visit www.cmpac.com

Music & Lyrics by Irving Berlin, Original Stage Production Directed by Walter Bobbie, Orchestrations by Larry Blank, Vocal & Dance Bruce Pomahac, Musical Director Matthew W. Surico, Choreographer M.E. Junge, Set Design PatRick Grossman, Sound Designer Nicolette Carosi, Lighting Designer Carl Tese, Stage Manager Amanda Wenchel, Costume Designer Ronald Green III, Directed by PatRick Grossman.

Starring: Brian Gill, Bobby Peterson, John Passadino, Michael Sherwood, Andrew Murano, Carleen Maro, Nicole Bianco, Linda Pentz, Katie Ferretti, Bailey Whitney, Ryan Cavanagh, Ronnie Green, Gina Morgigno, Marissa Tadeschi, Menyon Harrell, Ann Marie Finnie, Dori Ahlgim, Makayla Connolly, Brendan Noble, Katie Apostolico

Photo by: Lisa Schindlar