The spirit of Christmas has arrived early in Alberta as the Rosebud Theatre presents its holiday production of the classic Miracle on 34th Street, running until December 23. This heartwarming family show brings Valentine Davies' beloved story to life through an adaptation by Caleb Marshall and Erin Keating, offering Canadians a perfect seasonal outing.
A Timeless Story of Belief and Wonder
At the heart of the production is the story of Kris Kringle, a Macy's Santa who insists he's the real deal. His claims eventually land him in a courtroom where he must defend his sanity and, more importantly, prove his identity to eight-year-old Susan Walker. The young girl's mother, Doris, has raised her to reject fairy tales, making Susan's journey toward faith the emotional core of the narrative.
The courtroom trial and Susan's awakening provide the story's most powerful moments, though director Craig Hall and his cast must first navigate substantial exposition in the first act. They succeed by presenting many characters as larger-than-life figures, making the necessary background information entertaining rather than tedious.
Standout Performances Bring Characters to Life
Mike Thiessen delivers a particularly memorable performance, mastering two distinct roles with equal skill. He first appears as Mr. Shellhammer, the perpetually flustered head of Macy's toy department who struggles to manage a Santa that keeps sending customers to competing stores. Thiessen then transforms into the trial judge, who finds himself caught between legal duty and political pressure from a local mafia don determined to preserve the Santa myth.
The physical comedy reaches new heights through the casting of Hayley Rosenau as Shellhammer's wife. The couple's noticeable height difference becomes a running joke that both actors exploit to perfection. Rosenau shines in her other roles as well, particularly as a mother facing her child's impossible Christmas wish.
Balancing Caricature and Authenticity
Supporting cast members embrace the production's exaggerated style with enthusiasm. Juliet Alexander commands attention as the formidable Mrs. Macy, while Ryan Leenheer and Christopher Allan make strong impressions as a psychologist and drunken parade Santa respectively. Young Elias Roman brings cheeky awareness to his courtroom scene, clearly understanding he's testifying for personal gain rather than pure truth.
While the supporting cast enjoys broad characterizations, the central performers face the tougher challenge of maintaining realism. Aaron Krogman navigates this balance skillfully as Fred Gailey, the neighbor hoping to win over single mother Doris through her daughter. Krogman imbues Fred with goofy charm that never undermines the character's sincerity, even during the play's more serious romantic complications.
Rosebud Theatre's production of Miracle on 34th Street successfully captures the magic and message of the classic story, making it an ideal holiday entertainment choice for Alberta families seeking seasonal warmth and nostalgia.
