« “Plaid Tidings” is perfect holiday fun. »

Rating:  4 out of Fordyce

It was a double feature Saturday as I attended both holiday shows on the same day at the Gem and Century Theatres. Up first was the matinee of Plaid Tidings. This is the holiday sequel to Forever Plaid, the story of the ’50s singing group that was lost in a car accident and returned to Earth for one last concert.

This time they return again to fulfill their plans for a Christmas television special. The show is clever, well written, and well staged, and you will fall in love with this group of young men who sing and dance together like nobody’s business.

Scott Barnhart, Bradley Beahen, Jared Gertner, and Kevin Vortmann work well together in a show that will bring a smile to your face. I interviewed Bradley when the show first opened and he told me this cast had never worked together before. Well, they sure learned fast and reward the audience with the results.

I especially loved a very soulful version of “The Night Before Christmas,” and the quick Christmas medley they sing on a command from “beyond.” I was also touched with the messages from heaven coming from Rosemary Clooney. It was such a moving tribute to one of the greatest singers our planet has ever known.

Plaid Tidings gets a perfect four out of Fordyce. It runs through December 31 at the Gem Theatre.