Witness a Miracle

Robson Performing Arts Center presents the holiday classic “Miracle on 34th Street” on December 1, 2011.

Ezra Colón, Rick McVey, Clara Gambrel and Ben Mackel in “Miracle on 34th Street.”

The Broadway touring production of “Miracle on 34th Street” will be presented at the Robson Performing Arts Center on December 1 at 7 p.m. Many of us hold the film version dear to our hearts during the holiday season, and now there is the opportunity to experience the stage version. “’Miracle on 34th Street’ is a traditional celebration of the magic that is Christmas and will warm the heart of any cynic. It’s truly ­perfect for the entire family,” said Ruby Quinn, executive director of the Robson Performing Arts Center.

At the Macy’s Department Store Thanksgiving Day parade, the actor playing Santa is discovered to be drunk by a whiskered old man. Doris Walker, the ­no-nonsense special events director, persuades the old man to take his place. The old man proves to be a sensation and is quickly recruited to be the store Santa at the main Macy’s outlet. While he is successful, Ms. Walker learns that he calls himself Kris Kringle, and he claims to be the actual Santa Claus. Despite reassurances by Kringle’s doctor that he is harmless, Doris still has misgivings, especially when she has cynically trained herself, and especially her daughter, Susan, to reject all notions of belief and fantasy. And yet, people, especially Susan, begin to notice that there is something special about Kris and his determination to advance the true spirit of Christmas amidst the rampant commercialism around him, ­succeeding in improbable ways.

“In looking for a holiday show to have at the Robson Performing Arts Center,” states Quinn, “I not only wanted something that young people can enjoy, but something that is nostalgic and enjoyable for adults also.” The story has been made and remade several times.  “One of the best parts of this version is the fact that this is a musical.” Based on the movie by Valentine Davies, “’Tis the Season,” “This Is What I Live For,” “Just Imagine,” and “I Believe in Miracles” are a few of the songs included and written by Doug Smith.

The music and inspiration of this story reminds us that we don’t have to be young to believe in the spirit of Christmas, just young at heart. For ticket information to “Miracle on 34th Street” at the Robson Performing Arts Center, please call (918) 699-7390 or visit www.MyTicketOffice.com. Tickets range from $56 to $67, with special $20 pricing for ­students. There are also group rates available.  

The Robson Performing Arts Center was opened in July of 2006. Since then, Claremore has welcomed many shows, ­concerts and performances. Executive Director Ruby Quinn welcomes suggestions by the community and enjoys meeting people and touring them through the center. “Miracle on 34th Street” is the third show in the season after finishing “Wizard of Oz” and “A Ride With Bob” featuring Asleep at the Wheel. December is sure to be a busy month full of holiday fun, and what better way to start out the season on December 1 than with “Miracle on 34th Street”?

For more information, contact

Robson Performing Arts Center

(918) 699-7390