Commentary by Cait Buckalew, Campus Carrier Assistant Entertainment Editor

The Berry College Theatre Company’s annual Christmas fundraiser starts this week with the opening of “A Taffeta Christmas.” The 1950s style musical review, written and arranged by Rick Lewis, takes audience members through a live recording of a televised “holiday hoedown” starring eight singing sisters. 

 “There was a lot of choreography that (the cast) had to learn… they had to learn a lot of the melodies. It’s all really tight harmonies,” the shows director, Richard Bristow, visiting assistant professor of theater, said. 

Jason Huynh, Photojournalism Editor Top: Sophomores Cardie McClure, Deanna Cunningham and Emily Wolfe rehearse for opening night.  Bottom: Freshman Kristen Reeves performs as Barbara in “A Taffeta Christmas.”

The eight women in the cast obviously did their homework. Throughout the show the harmonies remained intact, lending themselves to the ‘50s style of the music. The songs ranged from familiar Christmas classics to fun ‘50s love medleys. Every song left me smiling, tapping my toes and wanting to sing along. 

Aside from succeeding in their singing, the actresses exuded astounding amounts of energy, which then revved up the audience. From the sillier songs they sang to impeccable comedic timing, these ladies were performing at top speed and showed no signs of slowing down. 

The show includes some extra fun for a select few audience members. The cast was very excited about this aspect of the show. 

Junior Sophia Veser said, “We do a lot of audience participation in this show, so I think it’ll be fun watching them have fun with us.” 

The audience participation was certainly one of the highlights of the show. The ladies managed to pull it off without it being too awkward or cheesy. 

Another successful aspect of the show was the staging. Walking into the theater to be seated felt like walking onto the set of a ‘50s variety show. The applause sign above the stage helped give the audience context for the setting, along with various voiceover commercial breaks throughout the show. 

The makeup and wardrobe also contributed to providing a sense of time for the show. The eight-woman cast all sported classic ‘50s hairstyles and timeless red lipstick to match their red heels and Christmas-themed plaid dresses. 

Actresses in the show were very ready to show their Christmas spirit. 

Sophomore Deanna Cunningham said, “Christmas is my favorite holiday, so the fact that this show is all about Christmas would have to be my favorite thing (about it).” 

The show is certainly not short on Christmas cheer. The characters frequently remind the audience of why their show is being hosted, sending friendly holiday greetings out between songs. The show features two Christmas medleys and a few full Christmas songs, including “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” and “White Christmas.” 

Proceeds will benefit St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital and the BCTC Theatre Circle. Seeing “A Taffeta Christmas” is a wonderful way for students to kick-start their holiday season and support a great cause. Admission to the shows can be bought with any size monetary donation. 

Performances will be held in E.H. Young Theatre on Dec. 4 at 7:30 p.m., Dec. 6 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 7 at 2 p.m.