By Amy Leffingwell —
MUNCIE, IN — Muncie Civic Theatre is delighted to bring holiday joy to the community with its Mainstage production of Miracle on 34th Street, running November 28 through December 21. This beloved musical adaptation of the classic film captures the warmth, wonder, and generosity of the Christmas season, making it the perfect outing for families of all ages.
Packed with familiar songs, heartfelt moments, and timeless charm, Miracle on 34th Street tells the story of Kris Kringle, a cheerful man who claims to be the real Santa Claus. As he brings hope to a cynical world, he inspires everyone around him to rediscover the power of belief. The musical features a delightful score by Meredith Willson, composer of The Music Man, including the holiday favorite “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” paired in counterpoint with Willson’s original tune “Pinecones and Hollyberries.”
The inspiration for this cherished story began in 1944, when writer Valentine Davies found himself in a crowded department store on Christmas Eve. Observing the frenzy of last-minute shopping, he wondered what Santa might think of the growing commercialism of the holiday. His short story, originally titled The Big Heart, sparked the creation of the 1947 film starring Maureen O’Hara and Natalie Wood. The movie became an instant classic and has since been remade several times, continuing to charm new generations.
Muncie Civic’s production embraces this theme of rediscovered wonder with a visual concept that begins in shades of black, white, and gray, symbolizing a world clouded by cynicism. As characters open their hearts to the beauty of the season, color gradually fills the stage, mirroring the return of hope and holiday spirit.
Performances run Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 PM and Sundays at 2:30 PM. The show is rated G with reserved seating. A captioned performance will be offered on December 7, and an audio-described performance on December 18.
Celebrate the season with this joyful classic. Tickets are available at munciecivic.org.
