Choreographer Kelli Barclay is set to bring her vision of “White Christmas” to the Goodspeed Opera House, with performances running from November 14 through December 28, 2023. Barclay, who has contributed to numerous productions at Goodspeed, including her role as associate choreographer for “Lucky in the Rain” and choreographer for “My One and Only,” will now take the lead in this beloved holiday musical.
Barclay’s connection to “White Christmas” runs deep. She was part of the original Broadway production in 2009, serving as the associate choreographer, dance captain, and swing performer. Her journey with the show continues now, as Goodspeed artistic director Donna Lynn Hilton invited her to helm this production after the cancellation of another scheduled show.
Creative Collaboration and Unique Challenges
Working alongside director Hunter Foster, known for his holiday productions at Goodspeed such as “A Christmas Story,” Barclay is excited about the collaboration. “Donna Lynn said, ‘I want you to have your own White Christmas,’” she shared. The urgency of the timeline following the canceled show necessitated quick preparations. “We had to hustle,” she noted, adding that she is grateful for Foster’s directorial expertise.
“White Christmas,” while reminiscent of classic musicals from the 1930s, is rooted in a 1954 film featuring stars like Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. The stage adaptation premiered in 2000 at The Muny in St. Louis, where Barclay played a key role in the choreography under Randy Skinner. Her experience proves invaluable as she prepares to recreate the magic on the Goodspeed stage.
The musical features iconic songs by Irving Berlin, including “Let Yourself Go” and “Blue Skies.” Barclay emphasizes that audience reception is typically positive, as the stage version differs from the film in significant ways. “Nobody ever says ‘That wasn’t in the movie!’” she explained, highlighting unique numbers like the act one finale, “Blue Skies,” which is not part of the original film.
A Joyful Holiday Experience
Barclay’s approach to choreography is deeply rooted in her experience with the intimate Goodspeed stage. “I have my own way of working around that,” she explained. By focusing on helping dancers connect with their movements, she ensures they feel comfortable performing in the limited space.
The cast for this production includes talented performers such as Omar Lopez-Cepero and Lauren Nicole Chapman, alongside a strong supporting ensemble. Barclay sees this production not as a radical reimagining but as a culmination of her learnings from previous “White Christmas” iterations and tours. “We’re not reinventing the wheel here. We’re making it fit the Goodspeed stage and putting our own stamp on it,” she said.
Reflecting on the joy that comes with staging holiday productions, Barclay stated, “This is just a joy. I prefer the shows that bring joy.” Her enthusiasm for the project is palpable, as she dreams of creating a memorable holiday experience for audiences. “I sure am,” she said. “This is a little jewel box of joy fulfilled.”
“Irving Berlin’s White Christmas” runs from November 14 through December 28 at the Goodspeed Opera House, located at 6 Main St., East Haddam. Performance times include Wednesdays at 14:00 and 19:30, Thursdays at 19:30, Fridays at 20:00, Saturdays at 15:00 and 20:00, and Sundays at 14:00 and 18:30. Additional Tuesday performances on December 23 and 30 will take place at 14:00 and 19:30. Tickets are priced between $35 and $91. For more information, visit goodspeed.org.
