The Cast Photo by Boris Martin

While the stage show is only 25 years old, most people are familiar with the 1954 film starring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, and Vera-Ellen. Though the movie predates my own lifetime by decades, it's my favorite Christmas film, filled with a glow of post-World War II charm: dashing gentlemen, elegant women who can sing and dance, and a warmth that instantly evokes nostalgia. I hoped the stage version would capture that same magic–and it does, transporting me right into that nostalgic, post-war holiday world.

After performing on "The Ed Sullivan Show"–the first of many spectacular dance numbers in the Paramount production–Wallace and Davis go to see a sister act, Betty (Sophie Grimm) and Judy Haynes (Jessie J. Potter). Instantly smitten with Judy, Phil cleverly tricks Bob into following the sisters to a hotel in Vermont, promising a picturesque winter wonderland. But when they arrive, there's no snow and they discover that their old general, General Waverly (David Girolmo), is now the struggling hotelier of a nearly bankrupt resort. With the help of the nosy hotel clerk Martha Watson (Abby C. Smith), General Waverly's granddaughter Susan (Omi Lichtenstein and Tessa Mae Pundsack), and Wallace and Davis's talented variety show cast, the duo works tirelessly to put on a show that can only lead to one thing: holiday magic and a perfectly satisfying happily-ever-after.

The dancing in this production is undoubtedly the highlight and simply breathtaking. From Tiffany Kraus's opening "Ed Sullivan Show" number to "The Best Things Happen While You're Dancing," I was completely mesmerized–the combination of skill, charm, and romance in that number literally brought tears to my eyes. It's a beautifully staged moment that captures the joy and intimacy of the story, making you feel every swoon and sparkle of the 1950s. Act II's "I Love a Piano" (choreographed by Annie Jo Fischer) is another visually stunning sequence, one of the most visually stimulating and pleasing I've ever seen on the Paramount stage.

While the dance ensemble is spectacular, the principal actors match their energy with equal grace. Syiek, Dolan, Grimm, and Potter channel the style and elegance of the 1950s, bringing the classic charm of the original 1954 characters to the stage. I was especially taken with Grimm, who carries herself with the poise, warmth, and sophistication reminiscent of Rosemary Clooney. The supporting cast add layers of humor, charm, and dignity throughout, ensuring there is never a dull moment.

Every production element contributes to the magic: Jeffrey Kmiec's sets transport us from World War II Europe to a bustling "Ed Sullivan Show"-style stage, a snowy train car, and the wintery Vermont resort. Mara Blumenfeld's costumes evoke the classic 1950s look, making me long for an era of timeless style. And director Stephen Schellhardt expertly ties it all together, recreating the film's nostalgic charm on stage while keeping it lively and fresh. If I had one tiny quibble, it would be a missed opportunity for a truly showstopping moment at the finale, but it hardly dims the joy and magic of the performance.

I had been eagerly anticipating White Christmas on stage and found it to be the perfect way to usher in the holiday season. Even my oldest son, who, as a toddler, was tricked into seeing this "soldier film" and stormed out in protest after the third dance number, was completely captivated by the charm, music, and dazzling performances. If you're looking for nostalgic holiday magic, showstopping dance, and a heartwarming reminder of the joy of the season, White Christmas at the Paramount is not to be missed.

White Christmas runs through January 11, 2025, at the Paramount Theatre, 23 East Galena Blvd., Aurora IL. For tickets and information, please visit paramountaurora.com/.