'Christmas Story' is a charming, fun show

"A Christmas Story," through Dec. 19, Pioneer Theatre Company, Simmons Pioneer Memorial Theatre (801-581-6961); running time: 2 hours 30 minutes (one intermission)

With a children's ensemble in the lobby playing the pre-show music and a child's voice giving the pre-show "turn off you cell phones" speech, it's clear that "A Christmas Story" at Simmons Pioneer Memorial Theatre is a different type of show.

Not only are you visiting a nostalgic gem from the past, the 1983 film on which the play is based, but it's almost a call (dare I say triple dog dare) to embrace your inner child — to try to remember what it was like being a kid.

The PTC production, directed by Paul Barnes, is a warm nod not only to the classic movie but to your inner child as well.

With 11 members of the 15-person cast being kids, Barnes had his work cut out for him. But, thanks to the amazing pool of talented actors, he has assembled a wonderful young cast that has a nice, natural chemistry and acts with charm and warmth.

Park City's Mason Johnson plays the glasses-wearing, BB-gun-wanting Ralphie. He does a wonderful job and garnered appreciative applause, especially with the iconic Ralphie moments — the bunny suit, the Santa visit and, of course, the BB gun.

His cohorts are also fun to watch in the classroom and playground scenes.

In the adult corner, Don Burroughs is just delightful as Ralphie's old man. His physical comedy is very well-done, and he is just completely likable.

Ditto his wife, Ralphie's mom, played by Gabra Zackman, whose quiet demeanor and often-forced happiness are engaging and often relatable.

And Jack Koenig, narrating as grown Ralphie, does a marvelous job painting a picture with the very descriptive words.

Beyond the wonderful performances, "A Christmas Story" has all the charm and warmth you remember from the film.

Brenda Van Der Wiel's costumes are superb, with one exception. The gag with Ralphie's brother, Randy, being so bundled up that he can't put his arms down just didn't work, as Randy didn't look puffy at all.

Other than that, the period costumes are gorgeous.

George Maxwell's set is not only gorgeous but also helps re-create the memory of the movie.

There were a handful of moments when the pace slowed just a bit, but that will likely even out.

"A Christmas Story" is just a fun show. It's warm, it's endearing, it's charming and it's also great to see our local up-and-coming actors take a turn on the big stage.

e-mail: ehansen@desnews.com