I’ve got beef with the Chris, Mrs. team.

What is your problem with oatmeal cookies? I know raisins can be controversial, but nonetheless, oatmeal cookies are delicious and oaty. As my favourite podcasters would say, don’t yuck Liam Tobin‘s character’s yum. #istandwithoatmeal.

Jokes aside, Chris, Mrs. is a delightful show. It is, indeed, holiday magic on stage. Is this plot predictable? A little, but in that deliciously ‘Hallmarkian’ way (I made up a new word). It’s joyful, it’s silly, it’s heartfelt, and I had a blast.

To provide a brief plot synopsis, Chris, Mrs. focuses around widow/marketing exec. Ben Chris (Liam Tobin) and his 3 children. The children find an engagement ring in their father’s bag, and write to Santa for assistance because they detest their step-mother-to-be, influencer girlboss Vicki Vandrelle (Olivia Sinclair-Brisbane). The group go on a trip to Ben’s family’s winter lodge, where we meet down-to-earth Holly (Danielle Wade). “Mischief and mistletoe” ensues.

Many of the songs by Katie Kerr and Matt Stodolak are certified bops. All I Want For Christmas (performed by AJ Bridel) – bop. Vicki’s Lament (performed by Olivia Sinclair-Brisbane) – bop. Brought the house down. Which brings me to the next point…

I know we’re supposed to not be Team Vicki, but I think she deserves better.

1. She’s goal oriented
2. She sets clear boundaries
3. She’s got chutzpah – she sets up meetings
4. Olivia Sinclair-Brisbane is a force and her voice is incredible

#justiceforvicki

Overall, the cast was great, but I wanted to give a special shoutout to Sarah Lynn Strange, who played Ben’s secretary/assistant Candace. From the moment Sarah stepped on stage dressed like a Christmas tree, I was sold. Sarah was quite funny, and along with Olivia, they stole the show for me.

I really enjoyed the dancing (choreography by Sarah Vance). I enjoyed the costumes (by Cory Sincennes and Beyata Hackborn), specifically the winter-chic attire. I noticed one of the ensemble members wore snowpants for the majority of the show – respect. The set was also visually interesting and festive (also designed by the hardworking team of Cory & Beyata).

If you’re a fan of Hallmark movies, this show is for you. If you’re a fan of Score! A Hockey Musical (quite possibly the second-greatest film of all time – this deserves its own article), this show is for you. If you want to see a Christmas show that’s not Elf or the Nutcracker, this show is for you. If you want to support an absolutely lovely and adorable couple (writing duo Matt & Katie), this show is for you. Overall – it’s a fun, family-friendly show, and certainly a great family activity.

Thanks again to PR Katie for the invite. Loved your opening night dress.

Chris, Mrs. is playing at the Winter Garden Theatre in Toronto until Dec. 31, 2023. You can purchase tickets here. Use discount code JOY20 for 20% off.

Featured image: Liam Tobin, Olivia Sinclair-Brisbane and the cast of Chris, Mrs. Photo by Max Power Photography.