Wilder's best-selling books and the popular television series have become so much a part of American experience, that what transpires on stage in this one-hour production isn't at all unexpected; however, the cast's commitment to a script that stays true to the books' intentions delivers the simple messages with a mix of humor and pathos in charming ways.
As Christmas approaches, Laura [Olivia Harbin] and Mary [Laineykaye McCord] anticipate the arrival of Santa Claus with ever-growing excitement. Ma [Laura Johstono] and Pa [Ricky Higby] do their best to calm them down, even with their hosting dinner in their remote house for people who had helped them with their new home: snobbish Mrs. Olsen [Sakia Dixon] and her spoiled daughter Nellie [Kai Dixon], war-worn Uncle George [Dean Miller], and fun-loving Mr. Edwards [Jimmy Fuller] and his tribe of cousins [Clay Edwards, Malory Glass, and Joseph Law].
Though life is hard on the Prairie, and a bad storm leaves them stranded when the bridge collapses, they manage to get through it with simple diversions: entertaining "tall stories", dancing, and sharing a meal. The cast I saw were thoroughly engaging as they told this sweet story; their ensemble performances were top notch.
And while Santa might not make it to their humble home, the hand-made gifts they share let us know that giving is often better than receiving, and the strength of family is all important. -- Ma says at one point that "as long as we have each other, we have Christmas"...a good message for us all at this holiday season.
