Miracle on 34th Street

FASD's 103rd season opened when Director Susan Davis, with Producers Donna Ridella, Geri Day and Norma Eschenburg, collected a cast of 36 to entertain our members and guests through this well-known Christmas story, brought to the public first via the movie screen. This joint production with The Theatre Arts Club of Detroit packed The Playhouse for three performances in November.

Kris Kringle (Rick Mason) with children at Macy's

When the validity of Santa Claus is put to the test we are told that faith is believing when common sense tells you not to.

Miss Adams (Izzy Donnelly) and Mr. Shelhammer (Geno Pirrami)

It was hard to tell who had more fun with this production; the children (of all ages) on stage or the audience.

And Jonathan Davis' set with the toy stand that sprang from the floor wowed everyone.

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The play opens at Macy's Thanksgiving parade, with children and parents alike stretching to see Santa and the other holiday characters.

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Everything is wonderful after an intoxicated Santa is replaced by Kris Kringle, who finds ways for each child to get the gift he or she has been dreaming about.

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Elf (Claire Platt)

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Kris becomes a celebrity, with newspapers trumpeting his (and Macy's) generosity and good will.

Newsboy (Ethan Rymiszewski)

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But when that means sending parents to other stores, his troubles begin, since it is impossible to please everyone all the time. Kris is found to be mentally ill for his insistance on being the real Santa Claus. It takes thousands of letters to prove that Santa does indeed live on in the hearts and minds of children far and wide.

Dr. Sawyer (John Denler)

with reporters (Matthew Becker, Pat Vintevogel, Andrew Denler, Dan Badia, and Lisa Lechniak)