This stage play was an incredibly executed rendition of a timeless classic, renewing hope, joy, and the Christmas spirit for all.

Persephone Theatre’s stage adaptation of Miracle on 34th Street offered a heartwarming and nostalgic dose of holiday spirit to theatre goers looking to escape the frigid Saskatoon weather. The play, as well as the set itself, captured the essence of the beloved 1947 film while breathing new life into its live audience. It did an incredible job of condensing the charm of the book and the classic film into a well-paced, funny, and poignant 2-hour performance, offering a great balance of nostalgia and fresh interpretation.

As the audience settled into their seats under the dimming lights, they were practically transported into the magical world of a Macy’s department store, where the question of whether Santa is real or not isn’t just a matter of belief, but of law and justice.

Based on Valentine Davies’ classic 1947 novella, the story follows an older gentleman named Kris Kringle who claims to be the real Santa Claus. Working as Santa in a Macy’s department store when he gets caught up in a whirlwind court case over his authenticity and sanity, where he’s forced to defend his identity as the real Santa Claus. The play also explores the lives of Doris Walker, a pragmatic Macy’s executive, and her young daughter, Susan, who has become disillusioned with magic and fantasy as a result of her mother’s teachings.

At the story’s core is a message about childhood innocence, the power of belief, and the importance of hope. In a world where society has unfortunately become riddled with cynicism and doubt, these ideas often get lost — it’s important we give weight to stories like these to remind us of what life is really about. 

Directed by Heather Cant, this iteration of the well-loved story focused more on the emotional aspects without losing its humor. There was a good balance between comedy and sentiment, which highlighted the interactions between characters and brought the dialogue to life. 

Hal Kerbes,  who played  Kris Kringle, was stellar. His portrayal was full of warmth and kindness, but never overwhelming the audience. He brought a sense of humanity to the role that felt both genuine and endearing, making Kris’ mission to prove his identity seem not only noble but deeply sincere. 

As Doris Walker, Danielle Spilchen delivered a dynamic performance, displaying both the strength and vulnerability of motherhood. Her character, Doris, is a woman who’s caught between the practicality of being an adult and a longing for the more wondrous parts of life, something Spilchen did a wonderful job at expressing. Doris’ character progression and the emotional journey she goes on, from a jaded and cynical mother to a hopeful believer, was beautifully developed and brought to life with subtlety and depth.

Susan, played by Vinnie May Jones on the night I enjoyed, was another standout performance. She brought in a real feeling of childlike wonder and innocence to the character that really sold Susan’s journey from skepticism to hope and mirrored the larger themes being discussed throughout the play. Her interactions with Kris and Doris added a much-needed feeling of connection and familial warmth that had everyone in the audience feeling the Christmas magic.

The message Miracle on 34th Street was trying to convey was one of hope, and how all it takes is a little belief for your life, and the world around you to change. It’s about finding magic in the little things and letting yourself embrace all the little wonders of the world, no matter your age or occupation. From the very first moments of the play to the final decision of Kris Kringle’s fate, the heart of the story is clear: the world is what you make of it, all you need is a little wonder and a little more belief, and the rest will follow. 

This = a heartwarming play that truly drew the audience in and got them invested. The emotional weight of the story’s message, and the meaning behind it all was felt most during the climactic final scene, when Susan finally realizes the true meaning of Christmas. She discovers it, not through Kris Kringle alone, but through the immense amount of love and support she receives from her family. It’s a culmination of the emotional arcs that have been carefully built throughout the production, and the payoff is genuinely moving.

While Miracle on 34th Street may not be a groundbreaking and innovative new story, it offers its audience a timeless message in a classic package. No matter how disconnected the world might feel, there’s something important and fulfilling in believing in something bigger than ourselves. The world, and the people in it, are large and wondrous, and it would do us good to remember that. 
Persephone Theatre’s stage version of Miracle on 34th Street offered a brilliant and emotionally resonant experience for audiences of all ages. Each cast member brought valuable depth to their role, and the direction ensured that the play never veered too far into kitsch or sentimentality, keeping it evenly keeled. It’s no wonder the show’s dates were extended. Whether you are seeing it for the first time or revisiting a timeless classic, it’s one of those productions that will have you leaving the theatre with a renewed sense of joy and hope—perfect is for the holiday season.