Santaland Diary

From: "will stackman" profwlll@yahoo.com

Subject: Quicktake - "The Santaland Diaries" by David Sedaris, adapted by Joe Mantello

Date: Wed, Dec 20, 10:18 PM

Quicktake on SANTALAND DIARIES

     Channeling his inner elf once again, John Kuntz has returned to "The Santaland Diaries" by David Sedaris, heard now and again on NPR. Wesley Savick directed this current run of Joe Mantello's adaptation in the New Rep's Downstage black box theatre. The program starts with two short pieces by Kuntz, first a riff on the presents from the "12 Days"--in a two room flat, followed by an interpretive "dance" audition-piece based on Dickens' three ghosts requiring audience participation. The action is backed by a large mural of St. Nick's whiskers, the centerpiece of Cristina Tedesco's design. Molly Trainer supplied John's elf uniform.

    Kuntz's approach to the piece employs his range of quick characterizations, but develops a strong central voice for the aspiring soap opera actor at the center of it all. "The Santaland Diaries" skewers the commercial excess of season while retaining a whiff of nostalgia for its essential charm. Extra late night shows have been added due to demand for tickets. Contact the New Rep for details. The next program in the company's second space will be a series of New Voices play readings at the end of January into February.

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"Santaland Diaries" by David Sedaris, Dec. 20 - Dec.31

New Repertory Theatre at Arsenal Center for the Arts, Black Box

321 Arsenal, Watertown, (617) 921 - 8487

New Repertory Theatre