reviewvancouver: Gateway Theatre; Home for the Holidays, John Jane

Gateway Theatre advertises this nostalgic tribute to itself and the many artists that have performed in the seasonal musical extravaganzas over the years as an “Online Musical Revue.” Though, in essence, it has the look and feel of a one hour television special. Not to say that director Barbara Tomasic, who also serves as the introductory presenter, hasn’t demanded quality. Her team has produced a show that is natural and entertaining that can be enjoyed by the entire family.

Twenty artists revive the tunes that they performed in previous Gateway Theatre productions. Lauren Bowler starts things off with “Wouldn’t it be Lovely” from My Fair Lady in an unfamiliar outdoors setting. We next see Lalainia Lindbjerg in her own kitchen. Widely regarded as a voice actor, and perhaps less well known as co-founder of the Lindbjerg Academy of Performing Arts in Coquitlam. Lindbjerg performed in the title role of Anne of Green Gables back in the eighties, so “Gee, I'm glad I'm no one else but me” was a natural for her. The Zimmerman sisters, Marlowe and Makena sing and dance their way through “It’s The Hard Knock Life” from Annie in what I would assume is their parent’s living room.

The brief intermission, normally a time to check text messages, but Audience Services Supervisor Oona Iverson suggests that the time is better invested mixing a cocktail. Oona presents a master-class in mixing a Jingle Bell on the rocks, and leaves just enough time to make one and get back to the show.

I’ve always enjoyed watching David Adams on stage. He has an easy-going charms and ready wit. His moving portrayal of Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof was unforgettable. Along with Zero Mostel and Topol, he is likely the actor most associated with the role. Sitting in front of a wall of memorabilia and framed photographs, Adams chats about his iconic role, before launching into “If I were a Rich Man.”

The made-for-viewing-at-home show ends with all the featured artists plus Barbara Tomasic coming together in perfectly synchronized Zoom^TM video conference mode of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s "Any Dream Will Do." Audiences will be dreaming of a live musical event next winter.