Press release from Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School

Does Santa Claus really exist? The award-winning Tower Players at  Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School want you to “believe,” and will make their case in the most entertaining way with Miracle on 34th Street, the Play.

The comedy/drama, sure to delight audiences of all ages, takes the stage in the RFH auditorium at 7:30 pm on Friday, December 12 and Saturday, December 13, and at 1 pm on Sunday, December 14.

Directed by Suzanne Sweeney and based on the script of the Oscar-winning 1947 holiday movie favorite (as well as the novel by Valentine Davies), the show is part nostalgic throwback and part cutting-edge entertainment, boasting spectacular dance numbers as well as a rousing rock-based soundtrack.

The “Miracle” begins when a kind white-haired man is asked by Macy’s bigwig Doris Walker to portray Santa in the famous flagship store in New York City. Trouble starts to brew when the man – who says his name is Kris Kringle – states that he is the actual Santa Claus. His claims are seriously doubted by Doris Walker and her daughter Susan, both of whom don’t believe in the existence of Santa Claus. As Kris’ sanity comes into question, his danger of being committed to a psychiatric institution grows. Doris, concerned for Kris, enlists her friend and neighbor Fred Gailey to defend Kris in court. The highly practical Susan befriends Kris as well and, in doing so, end up with the most precious gift of all: something to believe in.

In the RFH production, featuring 38 cast members in speaking and dancing roles, Doris Walker is portrayed by senior Emily Mangiavillano. Senior EIise Roncace is Susan Walker, Kris Kringle is played by senior Laurence Morales, and senior Andrew Maris is Fred Gailey. Sophomores Sara Safarian and Rachel Makstein are featured in a ballet performance as toys that come to life.

The creative team includes Carole Malik in charge of costumes and props, and choreography by Patty McCarron. Tower Players alumna Kasi Ann Sweeney is Assistant Director and Stefania Flecca is Play Production Coordinator. Sets, sounds, and lighting are provided by Matthew Leddin and his 30-student crew, with set design contributions from the RFH Stagecraft class as well.

Tickets for Miracle on 34th Street, the Play are $10 for general admission and $6 for senior citizens, children, and students with ID. Advance tickets are available online here, or by contacting Play Production Coordinator Stefania Flecca at (732)842-1597, extension 826.

Sales of advance tickets will also take place in the auditorium lobby from 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. on November 24, December 1, and December 4.  Tickets will be sold an hour before each performance as well, based on availability.