Reviewer: Chloë Cerva
Venue: Bay City Players
The Friction Theatre’s production of Plaid Tidings, the Holiday Edition of Forever Plaid, running December 11–14 at Bay City Players, is a warm, funny, and musically charming kickoff to the holiday season. Written by Stuart Ross and directed and choreographed with great energy by Megan Krause, the show pairs nostalgic barbershop harmonies with holiday cheer and quirky story. Music Director Sherri Angelotti, along with assistant director Heather Koch, ensures the production is both vocally tight and engaging.
The story follows a barbershop quartet, Frankie, Jinx, Smudge, and Sparky, who died in the 1960s and return from the afterlife for one last chance to perform a Christmas special. Sam Nowak (Frankie), Dylan Ratell (Jinx), Kyler Syring (Smudge), and Conner Wieland (Sparky) are outstanding as the Plaids, each bringing a distinct personality to the group while blending seamlessly as a quartet. Their harmonies are rich, balanced, and very, dare I say, “heavenly.” Right from the start, they break the fourth wall and start talking to the audience, asking people what year it is and panicking over a cell phone. It’s silly and charming and immediately bonds them with the crowd, setting the tone for an evening full of fun.
The humor in Plaid Tidings is continuous and varied, from creative wording to full on physical comedy. Numbers like “Sha-Boom,” “A Mixmaster Christmas,” and “Holiday Catering Drill” were audience favorites, each performed with enthusiasm. “Christmas Calypso,” especially the engaging “Matilda, Matilda” section, had the audience singing, whispering, and shouting along as the Plaids encouraged participation. There were beautiful moments such as Kyler Syring singing “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” solo, and the last song “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” with the full quartet that genuinely made me tear up. Gorgeous. Another part that stood out was a bell performance version of “Mr. Santa,” a holiday twist on “Mr. Sandman,” which featured a confused but game audience volunteer. Their involvement made the number even funnier and created some extra community within the theatre.
The production’s technical elements beautifully add to the performances. The lighting design paints the stage in plaid-patterned greens and reds a few times within the show, supporting the storie’s signature style. The Christmas decorations, glowing trees, presents, sweaters and scarves make the show feel warm and festive. Live musicians, pianist Cassidy Velthouse and bassist Dave Angelotti, did an amazing job and kept the music lively and fun all the way through, even playing along with some of the jokes. During intermission, the lovely Erin Whitfield sang, which was such a nice touch and kept the holiday spirit going even while the cast was offstage.
Ultimately, Plaid Tidings is a happy, heartwarming holiday celebration filled with music, humor, and genuine connection. The chemistry of the quartet, the creativity of the direction, and the strength of the live musicians all come together to create a show that feels both put together and full of spontaneous fun. Judging by the laughter and excited participation from the audience, The Friction Theatre’s production is not simply a barbershop performance, it’s a cheerful holiday experience.
For anyone looking to embrace the festive spirit with great music and lots of laughs, Plaid Tidings at Bay City Players is a must-see gift this December