“Auntie Claus” author Elise Primavera has described the title character as “a cross between Coco Chanel and Auntie Mame with a little Mary Poppins thrown in.” Good fortune has long smiled on any production with Megan Murphy Chambers in it, and the tremendous triple-threat performer is perfectly cast as the flamboyant doyenne of NYC’s Bing Cherry Hotel. The acclaimed children’s book character, her family and friends are exuberantly alive on the NCT stage thanks to Marcy Heisler (book and lyrics), Zina Goldrich (music), and show director/choreographer (and NCT Executive Artistic Director) Ernie Nolan, as well as a supremely talented ensemble onstage and off. You’d have to be a mix of pre-conversion Scrooge and Grinch to not feel your heart warmed by the ecstatic joy of Nashville Children’s Theatre’s world premiere “Auntie Claus” musical. The aurora borealis seems to dance above the city.Megan Murphy Chambers as Auntie Claus and Rebecca Keeshin as Sophie (Photo by Reed Hummell) A golden glow illuminates the scenes in the hotel. Lush acrylic paintings beautifully render an enchanted Christmas. This is a must-have, however, for New Yorkers and aspiring Sugar Plum Fairies. Such references and the long, busy text, make this better for kids 5 and older. Parents of young kids may have to explain the references to Dickens’ Christmas spirits, New York City landmarks, and Saks and Barneys. The aurora borealis seems to dance above the city. For the artwork is the star here: Lush acrylic paintings beautifully render an enchanted Christmas. The story spins along at a breathless pace, as if it’s trying to keep up with the swooping imagery. But much like bringing the North Pole to New York, it isn’t as satisfying at it should be. By then, however, you’re already being whisked along on a fantastical ride. Readers unfamiliar with Auntie Claus - this is Elise Primavera’s third book in the series - might need a few pages to fully understand the importance of Auntie Claus’ annual business trip.
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