Matthew Lombardo’s highly praised Who’s Holiday is back at Theater Wit for its seasonal run.
Cindy-Lou Who (Veronica Garza), now 40, is preparing to host a Christmas party for her friends in the Dr. Seuss universe but ends up telling us of the aftermath of the events that took place when she was a tot in How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
Who’s Holiday
Through 12/29: Thu 7 PM, Fri–Sat 7 and 9 PM, Sun 3 PM, also Mon 12/23 7 PM; 7 PM only Fri 12/6–12/13; Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont, 773-975-8150, theaterwit.org, $39
At its surface, Who’s Holiday has the makings to be one of those heartwarming redundant Christmas stories that proliferate through the likes of Hallmark and Lifetime. However, Christopher Pazdernik’s direction and Garza’s stellar, quick-witted embodiment of Cindy-Lou Who take the show on a different route that keeps its audience entertained. It mixes mature humor with the nostalgia of the Dr. Seuss universe through its rhyming cadence and cheery tone.
Garza’s embodiment of Cindy-Lou Who is captivating as soon as she steps into Cindy’s decked-out Christmas trailer (set design by Angela Weber Miller) on the outskirts of Whoville. Sporting costume designer Uriel Gomez’s Christmas-themed garb and a grown-up take on Cindy-Lou’s iconic updo, Garza leans into this new, edgier version of the character.
Throughout the show’s 65-minute run, Garza commands the attention of the audience with her quick-witted humor and doesn’t miss a beat as she interacts seamlessly with the audience through her bits and songs. There are points where she makes the audience laugh out loud, while still drawing them into the sadness of Cindy-Lou’s story. Garza’s performance offers surprises for her audience at every nook and cranny. Who’s Holiday is a must-see for those looking for a laugh while also leaning into what the reality of the season is for many.
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