Chicago Sun Times - Recommended
"...Adapted from the Valentine Davies novel, this production, directed at a mostly brisk tempo by Christopher Pazdernik, features fine music direction by Eugene Dizon, a first-rate live (if unseen) band led by Tom King Clear, and winningly and uncloying performances of more than a dozen carols and other holiday songs."
Chicago Reader - Somewhat Recommended
"...The songs are mainly beloved chestnuts and quasi-secular carols, dropped in to set moods and change sets, and the crux of Christopher Pazdernik's unashamedly sentimental staging is the story, not the singing. The evergreen plot, slamming super-rational psychiatrists and the commercialization of Christmas, works just as well here as in the two film versions. But, for all its vindication of imagination, you can equally dream up a world without Santa."
Centerstage - Recommended
"...This play with music breathes new life into the 1947 film classic about a Macy’s Department Store Santa Claus who convinces everyone to believe in miracles. Ascribing to the adage, “if it isn’t broken, don’t try to fix it,” this year’s revival offers last year’s charm, but with a few new touches. The end result is a sweetly old-fashioned holiday story that the whole family will enjoy."
ChicagoCritic - Recommended
"...This is a fine, family-friendly holiday treat. Like I said last year: take the kids and just use your imagination to enjoy this sweet holiday candy. The staging is innovative as it infuses Christmas standards designed to enhance out holiday mood. Hey, the kids can meet and be photographed with Santa after each performance. So come and tell Santa what you want for Christmas. Add this show to your short list."
Chicago Stage and Screen - Recommended
"...Porchlight Music Theatre tackles one of the most famous Christmas tales, a live stage production of “Miracle On 34th Street” based on the holiday film classic. A play from the novel by Valentine Davies with adaption by Patricia Di Benedetto Snyder, Will Severin, and John Vreeke. I'm sure everyone has seen at least one of the multiple motion pictures, the more famous ones being the original 1947 version featuring John Payne and Maureen O'Hara, and the 1994 version featuring Richard Attenborough as Santa himself. In my personal view I believe that is the obstacle with adapting classics to the stage, the audience has already fallen in love with the film therefore they know exactly how the play should go. Stray too far from the film then you'll lose your audience. Thankfully I'm safe to say that the Porchlight Theatre company does a great job with this proudtion."
Around The Town Chicago - Recommended
"...This year’s production is very close to what was done last year. They have added some projections and when Santa has his first meeting with the children, a few from the actual audience are added to the stage. Jim Sherman, who makes a marvelous Kris Kringle works these kids very well and manages to relax them and their families and in some cases, even get a laugh or two. He has taken on this role with the same heart and soul that he brought to his five years in “A Christmas Schooner” at The old Bailiwick Theater. The lovely Christa Buck returns as Doris Walker, his employer and newcomer Nicole Karkazis takes on the important role of Susan. Nicole is a delight to watch on stage and her smile will make you do likewise. David Heimann takes on the role of Fred, their neighbor and love interest for Doris and after that, the ensemble is what makes this show truly work!"
Chicago Theater Beat - Recommended
"...Miracle on 34th Street is definitely a kid pleaser, though adult chaperones are sure to enjoy themselves as well. It’s a fairly barebones production. But with such a convincing Santa, the ornamental takes a backseat to holiday spirit and heart. "
