A Sparkling Start to the Holiday Season: 'White Christmas' Shines at The Levoy Theatre
by Mike McKeon
The Holidays are approaching! I’m sure we are all aware now that the halloween decorations are coming down. And as always, they are swiftly replaced with Poinsettias and elaborate front lawn light shows. As the holidays approach many wonderful productions, both new and old, will be made available to us by our beloved South Jersey community theaters. I had the privilege to see one of the first productions of the season this past weekend at The Levoy in Historic Downtown Millville. The 1954 film to stage adaptation of “White Christmas” Directed by Maura Mather Jarve and Music Director Walter Webster. The Levoy is an obvious landmark on High St. You cannot miss the classic decor and beautiful architecture both inside and out. Starting with their large marque proudly announcing that evening's production. Before you reach the orchestra seating, a small Concession Stand and Bar are located to the right of the robust staircase that leads you to the balcony section of the venue.
After appreciating the genuine theater experience that The Levoy was able to provide, I found my seat. The show begins with the Overture and a great light show (designed by Lindsay Stevens) followed with Bob Wallace and Phil Davis (Jim Cook Jr and Kevin Gehringer respectively) performing a duet of “White Christmas” quickly showcasing the reason they were chosen as leads in this musical. During this same scene we are introduced to General Henry Waverly (Steven Ciapanna). Ciapanna was able to portray the General as tough and honorable, yet affectionate. This song quickly moves to the next musical number introducing the ensemble, as will I.
One thing that must be mentioned about this production is the Ensemble. This fabulous Ensemble was composed of Charley Bazzle, Nicandro D’Argenio, Giuseppe D’argenio, Lori Thompson, Amelia Kuhlen, Morgan Kahn, Landyn Pollard, Jebediah Eachus, Brady Thompson, and Lea Weiner. We can start with the choreography from Kristina Gannotta and Mackenzie Newbury. Everything from tap dance to ballroom is included and executed well by the Ensemble. If great choreography wasn’t enough, they were able to conduct countless well timed costume changes. These costumes were not simple and easy to slip off either. I give Lisa Ziegler, Ellen Mather, and Donna Laning a standing ovation. They did an unbelievable job choosing costumes for each scene. The costumes were flashy, well fitting and professional, which really pulled the Ensemble together. This is coupled with the great job done by Jordan Rambo (Wigs, Hair, and Makeup Design) to bring this production to life.
Alongside the brilliant Ensemble we can thank Keith Meyers (Set Designer), Jeanne Marie Rambo, Maura Mather Jarve (Set Painters), Lauren Van Embden, Donna Laning (Props) for an amazing set design in all facets. The back drops were gorgeously painted and detailed, making you feel like you are part of the story. Scene changes and prop placement were performed quickly and positioned well from the perspective of the audience along with the clever sound design by Sean Pedrick. This is credited to the great stage crew behind the scenes including Patty Davis (Stage Manager), Elinor Blew and Angela Ridgeway (Assistant Stage Managers), and their crew Evelyn Jarve, Kairi Nardone (Spotlight Operators), Lily Jarve (Lightboard Operator), Lauren Van Embden, Olivia Johnson (Sound Operators), Chris Jarve (Fly Line Operator), and Gentry Rosenfeld, Seraphina D’Argenio (Deck Crew).
Now that the stage is set, we are introduced to Betty and Judy Haynes (Mackenzie Newbury and Hannah Lee DeFrates respectively) of course singing the classic song “Sisters” in “Jerry’s Backroom”. The scene is choreographed perfectly (once again thank you Gannotta and Newbury) and the “sisters” did not disappoint with vocals. These ladies continued to impress with their talent throughout the night. They were accompanied in several scenes by The General’s granddaughter Susan (Cadey Laning) and his Secretary Martha Watson (Lauren LaScala) harmonizing beautifully together. Not only did Laning and LaScala have impressive vocal talent, but they had an amazing chemistry together which showed with their great comedic timing.
My favorite musical number was “Snow” for a few reasons. First, the train stage design was very clever and included the whole cast comfortably considering the amount of movement happening. Next, I was pleasantly surprised by the voices of Mr. Snoring Man/Ralph Sheldrake and Mrs. Snoring Man/Seamstress (Alair Diremigio and Ofelia Chavez respectively). The duo chimed in during several musical numbers and added a fun energy each time. You also again see some great choreography work during this whole scene.
There was also great comic relief added by featured characters. For example Ezekiel Foster’s (Ricky Thompson) simple, easy going demeanor while Mike/Jimmy (James Dennis) panics to produce a show in 5 days. Combined with Rhoda and Rita (Zoey McKay and Jordan Rambo) always managing to pop up and cause trouble for Phil and Judy. They kept the mood well balanced throughout the show.
If you are looking for a night out with an authentic theater experience then The Levoy is the place to be, between the scenery and the music you will not be disappointed. Additionally, the props team (designed by Lauren Van Embden and Donna Laning) has a great surprise for the audience at the end of the production. I highly recommend you visit The Levoy in Historic Millville to enjoy the show and the venue, it will be worth it. The show runs from now till November 24. You can purchase tickets here: https://levoy.net/event/white-christmas/
