'Yes, Virginia The Musical' at WAMS - My Review

“Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist…”

Macy’s offered the script and score for ‘Yes, Virginia The Musical’ to any school free of charge this season so that theatre classes could easily present performances of this adorable musical for children. The Waterbury Arts Magnet School Theatre Production class taught by Nina A.Smith took advantage of this gift and will present three free performances this weekend in their drama classroom. Ms. Smith indicates in her director’s note that her class is dedicated to exploring all aspects that go into a theatrical endeavor and that three students make their debut onstage in this production that serves as the class’ midterm.

The pivotal role of Virginia was played to perfection by Trinity Flores. A petite young lady with a powerhouse voice and plenty of charm, Ms. Flores gave a superb performance. The Scraggly Santa was embodied by WAMS senior Christian “CJ” Janis, who also helped out with the musical elements of the show. He nailed the comedic aspects of his character and sang and danced (!) wonderfully. Yes, I am his mom and I am extremely proud of his growth as an actor/singer/dancer, but the audience seemed to agree with me.

CLICK HERE TO READ MY ENTIRE REVIEW ON ONSTAGE 

Kudos to all of the theatre students involved in all aspects of this heartwarming production. I would say that everyone passed their midterm, but unfortunately, I am not their teacher. The two remaining free performances at WAMS are Friday, Dec. 11 at 6:00pm and Saturday, Dec. 12 at noon in the drama classroom located two floors above the Apron Stage (follow the signs.) The youngest audience members are invited to sit up front on rug squares and are encouraged to write a letter to drop off at the Santa Mail letterbox located in local Macy’s stores and at the Palace Theater lobby. Email the director at nsmith@waterbury.k12.ct.us to check availabililty.

Photos by Nancy Sasso Janis