Scarborough Theatre Guild production now on stage

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If you can't wait until Christmas to see Santa, he's come to Scarborough early bringing along his jolly laugh, his elves and some new friends.

The latest production by the Scarborough Theatre Guild, Dear Santa, written by West Hill Collegiate grad Norm Foster, portrays all of the beautiful ideals of the Christmas season, while not being too sweet or mushy that your teeth hurt when it's over.

It's a funny show, with over-the-top characters, great dialogue and humour that will appeal to adults, but is kid-friendly at the same time.

Set just before Christmas, at Santa's house in the North Pole, Santa Claus (Len Henderson) is going over the day's schedule with his chief of staff, Algernon, or Al (Cary West). He has trips to Paris and Thailand and an appointment with a sleigh salesman, Lou Flapdoodle (Sandy Stephens).

The North Pole is buzzing as Christmas is near, and the last supply shipment is due to come in, ensuring the elves (portrayed by seven delightfully cute and talented children) can finish the presents in time for Christmas Eve.

However, something else comes in with the shipment, a girl named Kit Bishop (Stephanie Langford), who has stowed away on the train to hand-deliver a special letter to Santa from her younger brother, Michael (Daniel Wilson).

Kit is saucy and full of fire, but she means well. Turns out her family have had some hard times and her trip to the North Pole was to help secure her brother's Christmas wish.

Santa, touched by the letter and her story, embraces her, and introduces her to everyone, including handyman, Bozidar (Eric Edquist) and housekeeper, Octavia (Elizabeth Goodwin).

Just as everything is running according to schedule, suddenly, one un-expected problem after another arises, forces everyone to band together to get the presents made and delivered in time for Christmas morning.

What made this show entertaining to watch was the variety of characters. Each performer played their role to the fullest, and the show boasted a funny and unique cast of characters.

Like Bozidar, with a funny accent, he was reminiscent of Borat, who used hilarious phrases that didn't make sense like "I'll be my uncle's monkey" and "devil's avocadoes."

Al, an uptight, no-nonsense planner, is always teased because he's so high-strung. And Octavia, who is sweet, but has a loose tongue and a kooky sense of humour, is trying to get him to notice her because she's had a crush on him forever. Lou Flapdoodle, a slick salesman who gives Santa a run for his money, is hilariously played by Stephens.

Henderson's portrayal of jolly St. Nick was Santa personified. He was warm and considerate and made you wish there was someone watching to see if you've been naughty or nice. Langford gave a talented performance as Kit and sang beautifully in her choir number.

Against a back drop of Santa's workshop, adorned with red garland, lots of toys and a view of the mountains, this feel-good story is suitable for all, and sure to remind everyone what the Christmas season is truly all about.

Dear Santa's remaining shows are December Wednesday to Saturday and Dec. 11 and 12 at 8 p.m. and December Sunday and Dec. 13 at 2 p.m., Scarborough Village Theatre, 3600 Kingston Road. Tickets are $17 and $14 for seniors and students on Thursdays and Sundays only. For tickets call 416-396-4049.