Christmas 2014 was a magical time for many people around the world. The holiday season brings a sense of joy and wonder, and that year was no exception. People came together with loved ones to celebrate the festive season, creating memories that would last a lifetime. The streets were adorned with twinkling lights and colorful decorations, creating a magical atmosphere everywhere you went. Children eagerly wrote their letters to Santa Claus, hoping that their wishes would come true on Christmas morning. The air was filled with anticipation and excitement.
The air was filled with anticipation and excitement. Families gathered around the Christmas tree, exchanging gifts and sharing laughter. The sound of carols filled the air, bringing cheer to all who heard them.
‘Magic of Christmas’ lives up to its name
Members of the Young Americans perform during the group's show “The Magic of Christmas” at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts.
The Young Americans will be giving nine performances of “The Magic of Christmas” at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts.
Members of the Young Americans perform during the group's show “The Magic of Christmas,” at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts through Dec. 21.
Members of the Young Americans perform during the group's show “The Magic of Christmas.”Dancers perform onstage during the Young Americans' holiday show “The Magic of Christmas” at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts.
Otho Womack performs a solo during “The Magic of Christmas” at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts.
“The Magic of Christmas” features a number of large-scale production numbers performed by the Young Americans.
The Young Americans' holiday show “The Magic of Christmas” is at the La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts through Dec. 21.
The 250-member Young Americans perform at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts.Members of the Young Americans perform in snowfall in a scene from their holiday show “The Magic of Christmas,” at La Mirrada Theatre for the Performing Arts through Dec. 21.
Show Caption December 14, 2014 at 11:55 a.m.The 52-year history of the Young Americans is a storied one that could easily fill the space meant for this review.
Suffice it to say that it’s a success story of a non-profit organization dedicated to singing that has grown in size and scope from regional to national, with global outreach to dozens of nations.
Christmas is the only time of year when all of the various Young Americans sub-groups combine into one cast, for the performance of YA’s annual show, “The Magic of Christmas.”
Held this year at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts, the show is a socko yuletide extravaganza featuring a huge cast of 250 that moves in and out of more than 30 scene changes and dozens of costumes. They’re backed by several huge, 45-foot-high LED “wall” screens used to produce amazingly bright backgrounds and visuals, many of which are animated.
In case you’re unfamiliar with the Young Americans, all are in their late teens to early 20s, and whether individually or en masse, they sing and dance in every conceivable musical style and genre. Their talent, musicality, energy and heart are unquestionable.
The selections range from classical music (”The Nutcracker,” The “Hallelujah” Chorus) to pop holiday songs (“Frosty the Snowman,” “Let It Snow”) and Christmas carols. Among the more than 45 musical numbers, you’ll also hear jazz, swing, big band, and a versatile sampling of rock ’n’ roll (’50s through 2000s). The dizzying number of composers and songwriters represented includes Irving Berlin, Victor Herbert, Johnny Marks, Handel and Tchaikovsky.
Broadway and movie music aren’t overlooked, and an extended rock segment includes an all-stops-out, vibrant Motown (dubbed “Snowtown”) medley; hip-hop and surf music; and segments that are both accurate impersonations, but also parodies, of boy bands like Boyz II Men and New Kids on the Block, furnished with all-new lyrics by YA. Also with new lyrics: “Jingle, Jive and Wail” and “Sing, Sing, Sing.”
“Magic of Christmas” was first conceived and performed by YA founder Milton C. Anderson in the late 1980s with a cast of roughly 30. It has since grown eight-fold, with the current edition directed and partly created by longtime YA singer Bill Brawley and choreographed by his wife, Robyn Brawley.
Giving the show its professional sheen are LED wall graphic designer TJ Stoltz, set and lighting designer Don Strom, costume designer Tara Smart Stoltz and sound designer Nick Cimino.
The hallmark of “Magic of Christmas” is the almost inexhaustible energy and enthusiasm of the show’s huge cast, which includes many YA “alumni” who have gone on to become professional singers.
Notable performers include vocalists Adam Brown, Jessica Caravella, Adrian Castanon, Carley Congdon, J’Lin Jordan, Alissa Klein, Jordan Mantey, Mike Martinez, Quiana McElroy, Jiana Odland, Kayla Sampson, Kiara Sampson, Kristina Sampson, Mariah Strickland, Nick Townsend, Otha Womack and Michael Wordly, and dancers Rachel Caron, Erin Cole and J.R. Gooseberry.
All of the show’s scenes, visuals, songs and dance numbers are cleverly conceived and expertly executed. Highlights include a ski lodge/Holiday Inn segement; a nightclub medley that briefly spotlights nine different soloists; a funk/rap version of “The Little Drummer Boy”; and a toy shop medley that includes “Toyland,” Dr. Seuss and the movie “Frozen.”
“March of the Penguins” starts with five dancing penguins, but soon the stage is filled with them. Eight sexy young ladies play Santa’s dancing reindeer, joined by a four-legged, tap-dancing, red-nosed Rudolph. Two-dozen white-clad ballerinas dance “The Nutcracker” and the Pink Panther (don’t ask!) cavorts with 24 Santas.
Most hilariously incongruous and outré of all, 12 “babies” – adult faces framed by baby bodies, their “legs” created by the arms and hands of 12 more performers – who’re convinced Santa will overlook them because “I’m Gettin’ Nuttin’ for Christmas.”
That latter image typifies the show’s unlimited imagination. With director Brawley’s fluid staging and Gary Delk’s conducting from the pit, the music moves from raucous and rowdy numbers to soft, reverent ones without ever missing a beat.
The grand finale unfolds in a church featuring more than 120 singers in a Christmas choir setting singing “Jesu Joy,” “Ave Maria,” “O Holy Night” and “For Unto Us a Child Is Born.” A choral version of Three Dog Night’s “Joy to the World” morphs into jazzy rock, then an explosive gospel production number.
The encore is a soft, heartfelt rendition of “Silent Night” – a wholly apt closing. “The Magic of Christmas” is not to be missed. If you can see only one musical this holiday season, make it this one.
The Young Americans will be giving nine performances of “The Magic of Christmas” at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts.
Fires crackled in fireplaces, spreading warmth and comfort throughout homes. Community events and parties were held, bringing people from all walks of life together to celebrate the season. There were Christmas markets with delicious treats and handmade crafts, providing a festive backdrop for holiday shopping. Joyful laughter and cheerful chatter could be heard all around. Charitable acts were also a big part of the magic that year. People donated their time, money, and resources to help those less fortunate. Food drives, toy drives, and volunteer initiatives were organized to ensure that everyone could experience the joy and love that the holiday season brings. The magic of Christmas 2014 extended beyond the physical. It was a time when people embraced the spirit of giving, kindness, and gratitude. Love and compassion filled the hearts of many, reminding them of the true meaning of the season. As the year came to a close, people reflected on the memories made during that magical Christmas. They held onto the joy and love they experienced, carrying it with them into the new year. Christmas 2014 will always be remembered as a time of wonder, unity, and the power of the human spirit. Overall, Christmas 2014 was truly a magical time. It brought people together, created lasting memories, and reminded us of the power of love and kindness. The spirit of the season is something that should be celebrated and cherished every day of the year..
Reviews for "The Most Unique Christmas Ornaments of 2014"
1. John - 1/5 - "A Magic Christmas 2014 was an absolute disaster. The plot was predictable and the acting was cringe-worthy. It felt like the filmmakers were trying too hard to create a heartwarming holiday tale, but it fell flat. The special effects were poorly done and the dialogue was cheesy. Overall, I would not recommend wasting your time on this film."
2. Emily - 2/5 - "I had high hopes for A Magic Christmas 2014, but unfortunately, it fell short. The storyline had potential, but it was executed poorly. The acting was subpar and I didn't connect with any of the characters. The film lacked the magic and charm that it promised. I was left feeling disappointed and wishing I had chosen a different holiday movie to watch."
3. Sarah - 1/5 - "A Magic Christmas 2014 was a complete letdown. The plot was unoriginal and lacked any depth. The acting was wooden and unconvincing, making it difficult to stay engaged. The film failed to capture the spirit of Christmas and was overall a forgettable experience. I would not recommend wasting your time on this mediocre film when there are much better holiday movies out there."