By Lonnie the Theater Lady
“Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and Then Some)” is a fast-paced, lighthearted show that is chock full of puns, and often surprising, always funny dialogue. Interesting, odd, worldwide holiday traditions are sprinkled in between poking fun of just about every Christmas story known to man.
Jim (Johnny Terreri) dressed as Scrooge begins to perform “A Christmas Carol”. He believes this Dicken’s classic is the obvious and only choice. Sam (Carina Ianarelli) and John (Ray Cygrmus) strongly oppose that choice. They believe it’s overdone and trite. Jim does everything he can to coerce them into doing “A Christmas Carol”. Sam repeatedly pulls the play in other directions by campaigning for any Christmas story other than the Dicken’s classic. John just goes with the flow and runs off and on the stage in various costumes, carrying absurd props. Very funny.
Kudos to all three of the actors for their unflagging energy and uninhibited silliness. All of them appear to be having a great time as they play a multitude of different characters, some of different genders.
Terreri, clearly exasperated is nonetheless persistent. He shines with his entertaining Jimmy Stewart impersonation.
Ianerelli uses lots of facial expressions, body posturing and vocal nuance to maximize the comedic aspects of her characters. Her comedic timing is impressive.
Cygrmus is hilarious playing his roles. His female roles are particularly funny! He throws himself fully into each of his characters.
Director, Lorraine Mszanski is to be commended for keeping up the rapid pacing of the dialogue and action.
There are a couple of magical moments when the theater transforms into a virtual Christmas wonderland. Beautiful! Another high point is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Over the top funny!
-LTL
“Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and Then Some)” runs from December 5-15 (but changes venues). For more information, click here.
