Musical Mayhem Productions Brings Elk Grove A White Christmas
Last weekend, I had the pleasure of attending Irving Berlin’s White Christmas put on by Musical Mayhem Productions. Musical Mayhem Productions (MMP) is an Elk Grove non-profit that provides quality theater education to children and adults with special needs. MMP is the same group that brought us Grease this summer, in addition to Elly Award Winning Spamalot. White Christmas is their latest endeavor and a perfect way get in the holiday mood.
White Christmas Ensemble Opening Number
Location
White Christmas is being performed at the Consumnes Oaks High School Performing Arts Theater. First of all, I was blown away by what a professional looking theater we have in Elk Grove! Parking spaces were plentiful. The building is well lit and clearly marked therefore it was easy to find our will call tickets and get into the lobby. Theater style seats were comfortable with a pull out tray table that you can use for your purse or program. Making your way around the theater after the lights go down is easy due to the subtle theater aisle lights. Overall, it’s a great location for any kind of performance.
Plot
White Christmas is about two soldiers who become a famous song and dance act Wallace and Davis. After meeting and falling for a sister performing duo, they follow them to Vermont. In Vermont, they find that their former commanding officer, General Waverly, owns a failing inn. Wallace, Davis, and company try to pull together a Christmas show to save the inn. Antics and misunderstandings abound as they work in secret to help the General save his business and livelihood.
Susan, Wallace, Davis, Judy and Martha in White Christmas
The Performance
All the actors do an awesome job on this production of White Christmas. Notably, Cole Stieferman in the lead role as Bob Wallace. Crystal clear singing voice and strong stage presence make him an amazing leading man! Comic relief is brought to us by Emily Kerschner in the role of Martha Watson who added sass and punchiness to the show. However, Mia Fisher stole the show with her charismatic and energetic portrayal of Susan Waverly. Her star quality is apparent so we will probably see her in more starring roles in the future.
What struck me the most about the young actors is their enthusiasm and dedication! Looking around the stage, you could feel their excitement to be performing. Most noteworthy is the inclusive cast with actors of different size, shapes, ethnicities, and abilities. I applaud Musical Mayhem Productions for having a program where each child who tries out is given a role therefore giving children courage to keep performing. Each actor brought their gifts to the stage for a heartwarming show!
White Christmas Closing Number
In conclusion, Musical Mayhem puts on a quality show! No need to pay four times more or drive into another town! For less than the cost of a movie ticket, you will be transformed to a 1950’s Christmas with grand dance numbers and the familiar songs of Rogers and Hammerstein. Do not miss your opportunity to see White Christmas this weekend! What better way to get into the holiday spirit than seeing children and teens bring to life a classic musical? Tickets are still available for Friday Nov 17 at 7pm and Saturday Nov 18 at 2pm and 7pm. BUY TICKETS HERE.
