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REVIEW: Rockin’ Christmas Party at ZACH Theatre

By Rob Faubion

Returning for its sixteen year, ZACH Theatre's Rockin’ Christmas Party reigns as the longest-running holiday musical in Austin. And even after 16 years, the show still brings audiences to their feet with Motown-inspired production values.

Michael Raiford's new set designs for this year's production take their inspirations from pop-up books and snow globes. The literal manifestation for the finale brought "oohs" from the audience, who were awash in holiday spirit from the performance.

ZACH regulars Judy Arnold, Felicia Dinwiddie, and Rebecca Schoolar - all three original members of ZACH's other legendary musical production, Beehive - entranced with their incredible voices - perfectly mixed by Craig Brock's wall-of-sound design. All three have distinctive styles that director Dave Steakley exploits to their fullest.

Laura Benedict - also returning for this year’s production - gives a terrific turn as Brenda Lee, among her well-crafted songs. Rockin' newcomers Tiffany Mann and Bernard Davis - the only man in this year's cast - hold their own among the ladies, showcasing their rich voices throughout the evening.

Jason Amato's lights dance across Raiford's set, and he should earn another B. Iden Payne Award for his work. And the Rockin’ Christmas band - led by Lannie Hilboldt - brings the whole spectacle to life with precision.

With a mix of old and new - returning cast members and classic numbers balanced by new cast members and a new set - this year's rendition of Rockin’ Christmas Party feels as fresh as a holiday snow fall. Even after 16 years, ZACH's annual staging retains all the twinkle and luster of a freshly-glazed sugar plum.

Rockin' Christmas Party contiues through December 27th on ZACH's Kleberg Stage. For reservations and information, call (512) 476-0541, ext. 1, or visit www.ZACHTheatre.org.

(Photo: Laura Benedict, Judy Arnold and Rebecca Schoolar; photo by Kirk Tuck)