New Village Arts Theatre in Carlsbad is currently mounting a live radio play based on the 1947 movie “Miracle on 34th Street”. Adapted by Lance Arthur Smith with original songs (26 in all with advertising jingles, Christmas songs, 40’s harmonies a la The Andrew Sisters). With arrangements by Jon Lorenz and musical direction by E.Y. Washington, it is not only a live radio play, it is also a music and dancing show (Choreographer Luke H. Jacobs) with pretty basic moves singing and performing) in front of standing mic’s all the way through. With a seven member ensemble playing multiple parts and a quick change of costume, all in period, (Janet Pitcher) that’s stage ready at the drop of a hat, New Village Arts hit the jackpot on this one.
Both movie and current adaptation carry the underlying message of believing in ourselves, having faith in ourselves and the world around us.
The musical play opens by introducing the players. On the top of the two tiered set (Michael Wogulis, lighting, Annelise Salazar, sound, Evan Eason, audio, Marcus Rico) are all the little noise making and technical goodies used by the announcer, Alex (Jaxon Smith) simulating a live radio show.
