‘Broadway Christmas’ kicks season into gear at State Theatre
The dazzling musical, “Broadway Christmas Wonderland,” 7 p.m. Dec 1, 2, State Theatre, 453 Northampton St., Easton, is filled with holiday spirit sure to entertain even the grumpiest of the season’s Scrooge.
Produced by Spirit Productions and David King, the internationally-acclaimed theater producer best known for his mega-hit musical, “Spirit of the Dance,” “Broadway Christmas Wonderland” is intended to be a glittering and enchanting Christmas extravaganza for all ages.
Cast member and vocalist Daniel Drewes will perform holiday favorites such as “Do You Hear What I Hear”-”A Child is Born” and “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” as well as appearing in the ensemble. In a phone interview from his home in Manhattan, Drewes says he is thrilled to be on his first national tour with Spirit Productions: “This is one of the most enjoyable jobs that I’ve had. I’m having a really great time.”
Drewes, originally from Long island, N.Y., graduated in 2009 from the American Musical and Dramatic Academy and performed professionally in equity theaters across the United States. He was a lead male vocalist on several cruise lines, including Norwegian, and performed in two off-Broadway productions with “Musicals Tonight!” Drewes also played Sonny Malone in “Xanadu” and Fredrick in “Pirates of Penzance,” which received two Desert Theatre League nominations, and played Grandmaster Chad in “Legally Blonde: The Musical.”
“I’m the Josh Groban and Michael Buble type,“ says Drewes of his high-tenor range. “I do the jazzier stuff.”
The cast of 24 singers and dancers are hand-selected from London, New York, Las Vegas and Los Angeles. They transform the stage into a winter wonderland that carries the audience on a magical journey through nostalgic Christmas favorites. From a scene with Santa and his merry helpers at the North Pole workshop to a cozy Central Park vista, there are unforgettable songs such as “White Christmas,” “Winter Wonderland,” “Away in a Manger,” “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” “Let it Snow,” “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” “O Holy Night” and more.
Some of the dance numbers in this year’s production are brand-new. “This is the newest version of the show, so we’re currently workshopping [it,]” says Drewes. “New music is being recorded in London as we speak. We have a brand new opening, and we’ve got a new medley section of everyone’s favorite Christmas hits.”
Performers arrived in early November to begin rehearsals for the December show. They are choreographing some parts as they go, but are in full rehearsal mode. “We’re definitely going to be ready for our opening night,” says Drewes.
When asked what the audience can expect, Drewes says, “You’re going to get a lot of showbiz, all the glitz and glam.”
The showgirls are known for their high kicks and glamorous routines. Dazzling new costumes and elaborate sets make the production bright and polished.
“It’s definitely a visual spectacular,” says Drewes.
“Broadway Christmas Spectacular” highlights the essence of our Christmas excitement, our childlike wonder and our warm family traditions.
“Expect to leave the show full of Christmas spirit,” says Drewes. “If you are lacking in that, and caught up in the hustle and bustle and stresses of everyday life, you’re going to leave really thoroughly enjoying [the show] and entertained, and ready for Christmas.
“It will make you remember the happiness of Christmas.”
Tickets: State Theatre Box Office, 453 Northampton St., Easton; statetheatre.org, 1-800-999-STATE, 610-252-3132