I always love a chance to get to see something new at the theatre. Of course, I adore the classics as well but original material is always a treat. It’s also fun to see how a work evolves and changes as it goes through various iterations. The latest new show for me is Star of Wonder, a new holiday show at West Valley Arts. Naturally I love holiday shows but this is a touching story about grief, healing and the true message of Christmas.

This musical is written by local Utah playwright James Conlee and he does the music, book and lyrics (along with using many traditional Christmas carols.) He tells the story of the famous World War 1 Christmas truce where both sides of the battle stopped fighting and exchanged Christmas pleasantries together for a moment. I’ve heard of this story and even seen the excellent film Joyeux Noel about it but what was creative about this treatment is it focuses not on the event but on the PTSD of the soldiers who participated.

In Act 1 the friendships between the soldiers is built up all leading to the truce at the end and then Act 2 is the most reluctant Jack and his survivor’s guilt in returning from the war. Will Buhler gives a powerful performance as Jack with Kaden Conrad, Jake Oaklyn and Setu Lealagota as the other soldiers. They all have a nice chemistry together and feel believable as friends.

The production is kept simple by director Bruce Craven so we really can focus on the soldiers and their struggle. The costumes including convincing soldier uniforms are done well by Kris West and the lighting by Kai Sadowski captures the mirky war setting well in Act 1.

There are times the narrative drags a little in Star of Wonder, and they could probably cut at least one of the traditional carols out but I still enjoyed it. It’s nice to see something around the holidays that focuses on the religious tradition of it all and the healing that can come from hope and increased faith. I’m certainly glad I attended and it was a nice reminder of what really matters in this busy time of year. Unfortunately Star of Wonder finishes tonight but they always have interesting stuff at WVA so they are worth checking out and supporting. Find out more here.

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