MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET. THE MUSICAL

CHAOS staged the Black Country premiere of this show in time to get everyone in the mood for the Christmas celebrations.

This was a show of firsts for them  with new Co-Directors, Emma Newton and Sallie Woodhouse in charge of the direction and choreography, instead of their long-standing producer Dennis Price (District 08 Regional Rep).

Book, music and lyrics for this show were by Merdith Willson (best known for his show "The Music Man"). "Miracle" was his final Broadway musical originally called "Here's Love" (1963) Many of the original songs were retained in this version and the title song "Here's Love" was performed very touchingly by Kris (J.Paul Murdock), Fred (Richard Probert) and the Company.

CHAOS stalwart J Paul Murdock was completely at ease in the role of Kris Kringle and his lovely smile and voice charmed the audience as always. He was very ably supported by Doris (Michelle Casells) and Fred (Richard Probert) but many of the scenes were stolen by young Isabelle Westley-Smith in the role of Susan. She is certainly a name to watch and reminded me very much of a young Margaret O'Brien. There was a lovely duet between Fred and Susan entitled "My Wish." - Not a dry eye in the house!

Beautiful costumes and a lot of scenes changes in a show full of songs. It was a joyful show with many good performances. Definitely a show for societies who perform in November and December and CHAOS made certain that everyone left the theatre looking forward to the Great Day.

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