A bonus of Yuletide cheer arrived early this year at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre with the stage version of the Paramount film “White Christmas” from America’s master of melody Irving Berlin.
“White Christmas” tells a heartwarming story of two entertaining Army buddies who pay tribute to their former general by putting on a show in his picturesque, but struggling, Vermont inn.
When they discover a talented and beautiful sister act, they also find their perfect mates.
The show runs through Nov.21.
It is filled with delightful dancing, budding romance, lots of laughter and some of the greatest songs ever written including “Count Your Blessings,” “Happy Holiday,” “Sisters,” “Blue Skies,” and the unforgettable title song of the show.
The production is directed by Eddie Curry, with musical direction by Kristy Templet and choreography by Ron Morgan. Costumes are by Brian Horton. Michael Layton is the scenic designer.
Beef and Boards has become masters of the quick scene changes and this production puts their expertise to the test.
The show has two acts with Act I having 10 scenes and Act II with eight scenes.
All of the scene changes are done seamlessly as are the many costume changes for the cast.
A special highlight was the opening scene of Act II. It was a sizzling fast-paced tap dance number to the music of “I Love a Piano.”
The razzle-dazzle energy of the cast was amazing as they went through their singing and dancing – and all the time with smiles on their faces and with no sign of fatigue.
I sometimes wonder how pro football teams can keeping going for so long during a game, but I’d put this talented group of men and women in their league with their prolonged endurance during this musical event.
The headliners were Curt Dale Clark playing Bob Wallace and Timothy Ford as Phil Davis, the buddies trying to help their old general played by Douglas Stark. Playing the buddies’ love interests were the Haynes sisters played by Erin West and Christine Mild.
In addition to the headliners, every member of this cast was a standout.
For reservations, call the Beef & Boards box office at (317) 872-9664. Box office hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays.
For a complete show schedule, visit www.beefandboards.com.
You can e-mail comments to Jack Sales at jack-recorder@indy.rr.com.