Theater Review:

Chico Theater Company's Christmas 'Miracle' is a joy
By VERDA MACKAY - The Buzz (Chico Enterprise-Record)
Editor - Alan Sheckter

"I believe, I believe, I believe," chants 8-year-old Susan Walker as she tries to put the Santa Claus spirit into her heart.
When Valentine Davies wrote his 1947 screenplay, "Miracle on 34th Street," followed by his book, he didn't believe it would become a Christmas classic.

Under the skillful direction of Joe Garrow, the warmly humorous story opened at Chico Theater Company Nov. 29 to a full house.

People are so busy making things go faster, Christmas and Santa Claus seem to get lost in the shuffle. This large cast shows Christmas isn't just a day, it's a frame of mind.

The plot centers around an old man who thinks he is Santa Claus. He lives at Maplewood Home for the Aged, but with his name of Kriss Kringle, who could doubt his claim? During Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade he is hired to play Santa Claus by personnel director Doris Walker and department manager Mr. Shellhammer. During his reign as Santa Claus, Kringle generates a flood of Christmas cheer and giving until New York City responds with good will.

Susan Walker (played by Kendall Young, left), meet Kris Kingle (Joe Oleksiewicz) in "Miracle on 34th Street." (Jason Halley/The Buzz)

There are some who refuse to believe that Kringle is Santa Claus. Among them is Walker's cynical little girl, Susan. Steps are taken to lock Kringle away as a dangerous, demented person. When his case goes to court he is defended by Walker's friend, Fred Gailey. What happens next keeps the audience in laughter as the imaginative tale comes to its end with the assurance that real-life miracles can happen.

Mr. Shellhammer (played by Roger Hart, left) shows Kris Kringle (Joe Oleksiewicz) into Macy's during a rehearsal of Chico Theater Company's "Miracle on 34th St." (Jason Halley/The Buzz)

Although the two-act play was difficult to stage, the twilight-lit scenery changes were intriguing.
Joe Oleksiewicz "grew" into the lead role of Kriss Kringle by sporting his own full gray beard and rounded belly. His appealing portrayal was warmly received by the enthusiastic audience.

As Doris Walker, Elaina Dart seemed young for the role, but overcame any doubts with a terrific performance. Kendall Young, as doubtful child, Susan Walker, won the hearts of everyone. She shows promise of a starring future in live theater.

Although his scene was brief, young Cody Clements as Tommy Mara Jr. brought roars of laughter with his performance. Other child actors were warmly received.

Oscar Magana Jr. was credible as handsome lawyer Gailey. Roger Hart was convincing as Shellhammer. Other cast members include Andrea Doughman (Clara), Steve Emmons (Dr. Pierce), Darin Young (Dr. Sawyer), Cheri Furniss (Miss Adams), Russ Van Patten (Gimble), Marc Edson (Macy), Gary Patania (Thomas Mara Sr.), Diane Martin (Jane Zona-feld) and Elysse Fountain (Dr. Liz).

This is a makes-you-feel-good-all-over play and a joy for children of all ages.

Mr. Sawyer (played by Darin Young, from left) Kriss Kringle (Joe Oleksiewicz) and Miss Adams (Cheri Furniss) are pictured during a rehearsal of Chico Theater Company's "Miracle on 34th St." (Jason Halley/The Buzz)

Chico Theater Company's "Miracle on 34th Street" continues 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, through Dec. 15, with a 2 p.m. show Sunday at 166 Eaton Road. Tickets, $20 ($15 Thursdays), are available at the box office, noon-6 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday or at www.chicotheatercompany.com. Add $2 at the door. Call 894-3282.