BWW Reviews: Virginia Rep's MAME Brings 'A Little Christmas' Spirit to Richmond

Somehow the musical Mame is frequently thought of as a Christmas musical- largely because it contains the iconic song "We Need a Little Christmas" (which was shocking when it was written back in the '60's, because they were hanging Christmas decorations shortly after Thanksgiving and with 16 shopping days left before Christmas!)

The musical itself, currently running at Virginia Rep, is actually based on a 1955 novel by Patrick Dennis and subsequent play; turned into the musical in 1966. It is a fictional tale of a young boy, also named Patrick Dennis, who is sent to live with his only living relative, the Bohemian Mame Dennis in 1920's New York City.

Richmond native and Tony nominee Emily Skinner embodies the role with natural ease and elegance. She commands the stage reminiscent of Mary Martin (who ironically turned the original Broadway role down) with her bigger than life charm and vocal talent. Eleven year old Brandon McKinney is equally talented and an adorable triple threat with his acting, singing and dancing as Young Patrick. His facial expressions and timing display his emotional commitment and potential stardom.

The pair is surrounded by a stellar cast of Richmond performers who are a part of Young Patrick's eccentric and unorthodox upbringing-from pre-depression wealth, to losing it all, and then getting it all back again. Desiree Roots Centeio is captivating and charming as Mame's best friend and constant nemesis Vera. Audra Honaker once again proves she can shine in any genre- whether musical, comedy or drama. She is a hoot as Gooch, Patrick's straight laced nanny thrust into Mame's mad capped world. Jody Ashworth brings a strong voice and equally strong stage presence to Mame's short-lived husband Beau.

While Alexander Sapp appears a bit older than the college aged Patrick, he too shines with his beautiful vocals and youthful energy. The cast also includes solid supporting performances from Thomas E. Nowlin as Mame's publisher friend; Andrew C. Boothby as Babcock the stuffy executor of Patrick's father's estate; Brent Gallahan as the executor's rebellious son and Patrick's school roommate Junior Babcock; Nicole Oberleitner as Beau's first fiancée dripping with Southern charm- Sally Cato, Jody Smith as cantankerous Mother Burnside, and Ray Sheen as Mame's house-servant Ito.

Patti D'Beck doubles as director and choreographer in this visually attractive production; using the November Theater stage well, especially during scene changes and big extravagant full cast dance numbers. Ron Keller's sets work well with Lynne M. Hartman's light and Sue Griffin's costumes.

I know water on stage can sometimes be messy; but one small flaw involved the obvious lack of liquid in bottles and glasses that were central props in some scenes. Conversely, a faux fox was hilarious.

On second thought, with themes of unconditional love, family, and hope, Mame does make for a perfect Christmastime musical. Playing through January 11, 2015 at Virginia Rep's Sara Belle and Neil November Theater. www.Virginiarep.org.

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