Holiday Magic at NFCT with “Christmas Eve at Evergreen Mall”

The holiday spirit was at high levels at the “The North Fork Community Theatre” last weekend (Dec. 2-4) as they presented, “ONE CHRISTMAS EVE at EVERGREEN MALL.” This show, written by Lynne Halliday, Jim Hindman, Arlene Hutton, and Craig Pospisil, had the local North Fork audience happy, laughing and cheering. The show consists of eight intertwined stories on the last day of shopping at a Midwestern mall. Each one witty, funny, and well costumed. Applause to Director Nicholas Auletti and Assistant Director Julia Cappiello and Producer Kim Cappiello who put together a great show.

I enjoyed this show so much, because the writing is clever and the acting was so enthusiastic. The Theater itself has a new electronic screen or projection system that flashes up amazing, almost 3-D, extremely realistic backdrop sets. Congratulations to Elizabeth Liszanckie for this Video Wall magic. I love the wonderful Mattituck community. There is always so much support and appreciation for the performing arts. It is worth making a point to go there for a show.

As for the actors, they delivered big time. Bell Ringer … Patti Hautsch was genuine and had her own fan section in the crowd as did Pete Harrington as Andy, Gerald. His homespun approach touched the audience. Darla, played by Theresia Hand, was wonderfully strong, witty and connected with the crowd.

Andrew O’Brien portrayed complexity as Todd; he, too, turned in a strong performance, as did “M” sweatshirt-wearing Megan McGee as Jenny. She was gold. Showing great versatility doing the parts of both Erin and Felicia was Laura Pearsall. She nailed her salesperson at the dress store scene. Speaking of stage presence and commanding the scenes Gene O’Brien was excellent, as Stephen, Terry. He too, seemed to have a following in the audience.

Robert, Matthew were both played by Fred Nydegger who won over the audience with every clever line he delivered. Esmeralda Cabrera playing Lacey and Linda was excellent. She has a spark, a charisma and vulnerability. She can steal scenes as she did twice in this production. Evelyn Lubrano as Sharon was fantastic. She “woke” the crowd with her lines and logic.

Quentin Collins’ charisma as RJ was towering. The tall, blonde good-looking Collins has a killer smile that lit up the stage as he expertly delivered his lines. Leah Kerensky playing Taylor and Abbie again shows her talent and why she is a favorite at the NFCT. Cynthia Wells as Joellen gave an admirable performance.

Renee Marcks as Robin brought a unique relevancy to this production. Her gentle yet powerful scenes brought a believable “Blake Lively,” quality to the show. Veronica Spaeth as Molly and Ellie shifted gears, portraying her versatility and ability to add so much to scenes.

Any show has many folks the audience never sees. Job well done goes out to Dina Mondello for a smartly done Set Design. Stephen Ness and Dina Mondello successfully handle all the Set Decorations and Props. Stephen Ness did a brilliant job with the costumes as did the “Tuesday Crew” with the Set Construction.

David Sheer was once again masterful with the Lights. Kudos to Stage Manager Patti Hautsch. Lastly a special thank you to House Manager Glenn Abramowitz, who has been supporting east end performing arts his whole adult life.

Concerning the 2022 NFCT season, Mary Motto Kalich, one of the Directors said, “It has been a fabulous year for the NFCT! A lot of new actors have joined the theater, joining with our members to put on a string of blockbuster shows in 2022. We are so happy to be presenting live theatre and we are grateful for our patrons’ laughter and smiles which make the theatre sing with joy.”