PLAID TIDINGS: THE FOREVER PLAID HOLIDAY MUSICAL; SCERA Center for the Arts; 745 S. State, Orem; closes Dec. 22; (225-2569). Running time: 2 hours (one 15-minute intermission).

OREM — The Winter Solstice coupled with heavenly angels and orbs in the cosmos have aligned yet again allowing the Plaids, a four-voice male singing group, to come to Earth and give the Christmas concert they always wanted to do.

The SCERA Center for the Arts has brought a Christmas show to the stage that combines all the excitement of the season, the memories of days gone by and the silliness of boys at play.

The Plaids include Chad Taylor as Frankie, David Smith as Smudge, David Whitlock as Sparky and Shawn Mortensen as Jinx. These men have taken the Plaids to a whole new level of entertainment and hilarity. They blend their voices well and shine in their solo spots. Comedic timing is side-splitting.

Joining them as musical backup are pianist Andrew Walsh and Mitch Lee as drummer, both accomplished musicians.

For those who have seen "Forever Plaid," you'll recognize much of the first act, with several added twists and pundits.

Note. This is not a stage play but more a variety show. Memorable songs in Act I include: "Moments to Remember/Holiday for Plaids," "Besame Mucho/Kiss of Fire," "Christmas Calypso," and "Mambo Italiano."

The second act pulls out all the stops with a full holiday special with dancers similar to the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes complete with high kicks and great Santa Costumes. Music from the second act includes several Christmas and Winter Wonderland type renditions and a delightful tribute to Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer and Frosty the Snowman.

The best offering of the night came when the Plaids sang backup to Perry Como. Director Robinne Booth and music director Kathryn Little have done a great job with the media presentation, set design and casting. The children of the show received warm "ohs" and "ahs" from the audience. They include Abigail Higbee as the Treetop Angel, Max Higbee as Raggedy Andy, Megan Reynolds as Raggedy Ann, and Tarah Sherrod as the Magic Rabbit in the hat.

If you're looking for that one last Christmas thing to do, make it a night with "Plaid Tidings." This show should be a traditional event. It crosses all age barriers and is a wonderful evening of family entertainment.

Sensitivity rating: Not for very young children.

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E-mail: pugmire@desnews.com