There’s no denying the holidays are in full force at the Arkansas Repertory Theatre. If the multiple Christmas trees, stands of garland and twinkle lights don’t give it away, the two — yes, two — holiday shows happening simultaneously leave no question.
On one side of Main Street, in The Rep’s main theater space, is the world premiere of “The Gift of the Magi,” under the direction of John Miller-Stephany. The iconic O. Henry short story gets reimagined in this New York-based musical following newlyweds Jim and Della as they bustle about the city looking for the perfect gifts to exchange, something they each promised not to do.
Laura Sudduth as Della and Jesse Carrey-Beavers as Jim grant each role a bright earnestness that only young love can possess. Alongside these tender, sincere protagonists, actors Sandy York and Michael Keyloun hopscotch their way through multiple characters — many of which you’d find in New York today — while adding quite a few laughs to this heartfelt tale.
With in-depth storylines for once little-known characters, plus a fresh book by Jeffrey Hatcher, music from Andrew Cooke and lyrics by Maggie-Kate Coleman, this timeless piece breathes new life into a Christmas canon classic.
On the other side of Main Street, peppermint-striped tights take over the black box annex theater in “The Santaland Diaries.” Adapted from the journals of famed humorist David Sedaris, this one-man show is the story of a grown man who takes a job as an elf at Macy’s Santaland, and lives to tell the less-than-savory tale.
Clad in green velvet, Grant Fletcher Prewitt as Crumpet the Elf commands the small room, using his knack for comedic timing to its full extent. He both charms audiences and chides them, all while pouring them a stiff drink in this straight-no-chaser look at modern holiday insanity.
Because both plays are short (neither one includes an intermission), The Rep scheduled certain nights where showgoers can watch them back to back. Yes, this makes for quite the evening of merriment, but our advice? Make plans to leave the kiddos at home for your trip to Santaland.
“The Gift of the Magi” and “The Santaland Diaries” run through Christmas Eve. For showtimes and more information, or to purchase tickets online, visit The Rep’s website. You can also call (501) 378-0405 or visit the theater’s box office downtown at 601 Main St., Little Rock.