Panelists for the League of Cincinnati Theatres (LCT) have recognized The Children“™s Theatre of Cincinnati“™s production of Santa“™s Toy Factory with 4 LCT nominations for featured actor (Leo Northart III), Scenic Design (David Centers), Stage Management (Jennifer Picone) and Costumes (Kathie Brookfield) as well as distinguishing it as a recommended production.
In the new holiday musical, Santa’s Toy Factory, as the elves prepare for Santa’s Christmas Eve toy deliveries, they are faced with a huge dilemma. The Holiday ‘Spirit Meter’ is precariously low! Wendell, the kindest elf, knows that if the Christmas Spirit fails to reach the meter’s top level, Santa’s sleigh won’t be able to lift off the ground. Through the wonder of song and dance Wendell discovers the real meaning of Christmas: the joy of a happy heart and the magic of a holiday wish fulfilled.
Panelists nominated Leo Northart III, as Santa, whose “œbeautiful rich vocal abilities give this Santa more than the pre requisite “˜ho-ho-ho“™, and he manages to create a focused and three dimentional character.“ David Center“™s colorful set was “œeye-popping“ with “œlots of cool toys on the shelves“. Stage manager Jennifer Picone “œhad this complicated show running smoothly,“ while Kathie Brookfield“™s costumes were “œlovely“ and showed impressive attention to detail. The show as a whole was “œbursting with energy and Christmas spirit“; the kids in the audience were “œalternately mesmerized by the magic and laughing with excitement“.
Santa“™s Toy Factory continues through December 15th. Tickets can be purchased at http://www.thechildrenstheatre.com/onstage.
Final LCT awards will be determined at the end of the season and announced at the LCT gala in the spring.
