A Christmas classic with a twist comes to downtown Muncie
It’s not too late to enjoy the heart-warming Christmas classic, “Miracle on 34th Street,” at Muncie Civic Theatre.
The theatrical “Miracle on 34th Street,” based on the 1947 film of the same name, was the third musical from Meredith Willson, who also brought “The Music Man” to fame on Broadway.
“Miracle on 34th Street” tells the story of a department store Santa in New York who helps even the most cynical believe that Santa truly exists.
Director Laura Williamson said the biggest challenge was adding new elements while showcasing the musical’s history.
“I talked to my production team and said, ‘What if we took it one step further, what if we actually created the set and all the costumes, not just the style but the color as if it was in a black and white film?’” Williamson said.
The approach means costumes and sets begin in gray-scale and sepia tones, and then transform into color as the show progresses. The appearance of color is meant to represent the belief that emerges in each character, Williamson said.
The production contains popular songs such as “It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas,” which was popularized by singers such as Perry Como.
Even the lesser-known songs are still a treat for both the actors and audience. Emily McDaniel, Ball State junior and actor in the show, says that some songs are just plain funny.
“My favorite song is the Macy’s workers sing this song called ‘Plastic Alligators,’” she said. “It’s just this really goofy song, and it’s ridiculous, which is why I love it.”
While “Miracle on 34th Street” will warm the hearts of the audience, Williamson said the show is about more than just believing in Santa Claus. The Muncie audience will be able to relate to the theme of believing that faith in a community can make a difference.
“What I believe, is a very slow and not overnight, not all at once, belief in Muncie downtown’s identity,” she said.
Performances continue Dec.11-13, and 17-19. Tickets are $16 for adults, and $11 for students and children.
Andrea Yeater is a reporter for a Ball State immersive-learning arts journalism course.