'A Classic done with Class' by Jeanne McCartin

The second annual Ogunquit Playhouse and Music Hall holiday extravaganza, Irving Berlin’s "White Christmas, The Musical” is now on stage. Time to dust off the big-time superlatives it deserves.

In simple terms, “White Christmas” is a well-groomed piece. Everything is in its place: every step, note, hair, light, costume and sound.

“White Christmas” is based on the 1954 film of the same name, which featured Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney and Vera Ellen. It’s a true period piece with all the delicious schmaltz. There’s the pursuit of romance; a touch of comedy of errors and of patriotism; and a good dose of Christmas spirit and the classic convention “Let’s put on a show and save the barn.”

It also has some widely recognized and beloved tunes: the classic “White Christmas,” “Blue Skies,” “Sisters,” and others. This production is true to the film’s texture, but enhances it for the live element.

Following a cherished movie with iconic performers with a live production can be tricky. This team proves itself magic, creating a memorable collaborative work of art.

The Playhouse and Director Jayme McDaniel have brought together an incredible team.

The cast is memorable, each marking the role as their own, starting with Joey Sorge as the perfectly restrained Bob, Jeffry Denman a lively Phil, and the Haynes sisters, Kate Loprest the sensible Betty and Vanessa Sonon the spitfire Judy.

All four have the pipes and footwork for the job, and lots of pizzazz.

The remainder of the cast follows suit: Deborah Jean Templin as Martha Watson, David Johnson as Mike, Daren Kelly as Gen. Waverly, Elise Kinnon as Rita and Mychal Phillips as Rhoda, the two chorines, and the remainder of the cast, featured and ensemble. They sing, they dance, they impress.

The sole local performers are Lily Ramras and Caraline Shaheen, who alternate as the young Susan Waverley. Ramras performed last Thursday and did a bang-up job.

All the arts contribute to making this spectacular.

Kelli Barclay’s choreography is era perfect, and always graceful and dynamic. Her big numbers are thoroughly engaging, with “I Love a Piano” featuring Denman and Sonon a showstopper.

Costumes by Carrie Robbins work each scene and character perfectly. Richard Latta’s lighting design enhances the whole; ditto Kevin Heard’s sound design, and the wigs and make-up by Emilia Martin.

The excitement starts with the “White Christmas” overture and the accompanying curtain video, and continues through every scene to the finale. It’s a classic done with class, and a big red bow. This one is truly worth your discretionary time.