New Haven Register (New Haven, CT)
Musical stresses values
Living in the North Pole with Santa and his elves is certainly full of wonder and magic, but in “Eleanor’s Very Merry Christmas Wish — The Musical,” a rag doll named Eleanor finds something is missing. Despite loving her family, including Santa, Mrs. “Cookie” Claus, Clara Claus and the elves, she wishes for a best friend and home of her own. After realizing wishing is not enough, she pens a letter to Saint Nick himself.
The 65-minute production, written by Denise McGowan Tracy and based on her book, tells Eleanor’s story, including what happens after writing that letter expressing her dream. (Hint: She embarks on a new journey!) You and your family can experience her adventures through the streaming video of the 2019 world premiere performance of the show through New Haven’s Shubert Theatre and Waterbury’s Palace Theater anytime Friday, Nov. 27, through Sunday, Dec. 27.
The musical offers heartwarming lessons on friendship and family, among other things. Producer Tracy shared more via email.
Q: What message do you hope kids take away from the experience of seeing “Eleanor’s Very Merry Christmas Wish — The Musical”?
A: I hope that everyone who sees it – child or adult, comes away with a sense of hope and wonder. And, this year especially, a reminder of the importance of home and family — whether it is your born-to family or chosen family. Eleanor learns, and teaches us, that wishing is powerful but working toward a goal is just as important. Oh, and kindness. We could use some more kindness. And humor. We all need a laugh this year, don’t we?
Q: What’s next for this musical?
A: First, we’d love to tour the show in 2021 (if live theater returns by then) throughout the United States. And a part of me hopes that there will always be a sit-down production in Chicago — where the wish began. And if Dreamworks or Pixar is looking for a holiday animated special with a merchandise line, we wouldn’t mind that a bit.
The Shubert at shubert.com, promo code SHUNEW20. 203-624-1825. The Palace Theater at palacetheaterct.org, promo code PALWAT20. 203-346-2000. $20-per household ticket enables a 48-hour time frame between Nov. 27 and Dec. 27.