"Broadway Holiday" lights up Victoria stage

Concert shows often use the tried-and-true formula. It goes like this: a popular singing star of group dressed in gaudy costumes performing on a large stage with scenic bells and whistles and a big band that periodically drowns out the lyrics
These shows usually start late, run too long, and if you're lucky and leave the parking lot within a reasonable time, you may arrive home around midnight.
Not so with "Broadway Holiday," the current touring show continuing through Dec. 20 at the Victoria Theatre.
The brisk two-act musical revue includes nearly 30 songs, mostly Broadway tunes featured on the White Way in the last 50 years. Holiday tunes, not nearly enough, are sprinkled in throughout the show. A better balance of Yuletide songs may have enhanced what is still a very good show.
Skillfully performed by a quintet of Broadway stars -- Carter Calvert, Rita Harvey, Marc Kudisch, Norm Lewis and Danny Zolli -- "Broadway Holiday" is a vocal treat, a soaring sound of lyrical delights. Not only are the solos, duets, trios and quartet numbers nicely sung, the cast performs their songs with full gusto of expression and movement.
In the spirit of the season, the quintet and the local chorus of singers perform "White Christmas" as the finale.
Smooth transitions maintain the momentum of the show. Upbeat numbers like "I Could Have Danced All Night" segue into operatic numbers like "Some Enchanted Evening."
Kudos to pianist and narrator Neil Berg, a musician who obviously loves his work and enjoys bantering with the crowd. A casual and humorous Berg and his talented drummer, bass player and keyboardist elevate the entire show.
Oakwood resident Ken Neufeld, the new president and CEO of the VTA, made his debut opening night speech to the near-capacity Victoria crowd.
Although the VTA has devoted much time and energy to the promotion of the upcoming production of "Wicked" at the Schuster Center. the VTA staff can take a bow. They have kept their focus on their ticket holders by scheduling a top-notch entertainment value to start the season.
For ticket information on the show sponsored by Miami Valley and Good Samaritan hospitals, call 228-3630.