Review: A CHRISTMAS STORY Twinkles at Midtown Arts Center

The year is 1940. The place is a small town in Indiana. Ralphie Parker is convinced that his life will not be complete unless he gets a Red Ryder Carbine Action BB gun for Christmas. His mother says absolutely not - "You'll shoot your eye out" - and so, with only 24 days 'till Christmas, Ralphie searches desperately for a way to change her mind. Maybe a "what I want for Christmas" essay written for a school assignment will impress the teacher so much that in addition to giving him an A+ for his writing she'll call his parents and tell them he deserves a Red Ryder Carbine Action BB gun.

This is the well-known plot for the 1983 Christmas Classic, A Christmas Story. Keeping in line with modern theatrical tradition, a stage production featuring music and lyrics by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, and book by Joseph Robinette debuted on Broadway in 2012 and received several Tony nominations. Full Disclosure: I am not a fan of the movie. I never understood the pull that others felt. A pull that brings families to continue the tradition of watching 24 hour marathons of the movie on Christmas day.

Midtown Arts Center's exceptional cast makes this heartwarming tale completely fun. Elijah Walker Brandt as Ralphie is an exceptional young talent with a fantastic voice and plenty of charisma to lead the casT. Ryan Fisher shines as little brother, Randy (The role is also played by Ivan Austin Grown.) Charlotte Campbell charms as Mother and John Jankow masters the role of The Old Man and brings a hearty dose of humor to the show. Daniel Harkins is terrific as Jean Shepherd who narrates the show with both sensitivity and humor. The show's ensemble includes a fantastic troupe of children, that will dazzle you with their talents.

This production, led by Director/Choreographer Michael Lasris, doesn't fail to offer

memorable moments. The opening "It All Comes Down to Christmas," the showstopping "A Major Award," which include a kickline of leg lamps, and the tap-laden "You'll Shoot Your Eye Out," featuring Charity Ruth Haskins as Miss Shields and the kids in the ensemble, all work to put smiles on audience members' faces.

All in all, A Christmas Story is an enjoyable night out that you don't want to miss this holiday season. A Christmas Story runs until December 31st at Midtown Arts Center. Tickets are available by calling 970-225-2555 or visiting www.midtownartscenter.com

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