Starlighters’ show outdoes the original

On Dec. 11, I attended the Starlighters production of “White Christmas” so I decided the next night I would rent Bing Crosby's movie version. I must say, though, I was disappointed by one of the productions and that was Bing Crosby's. In every way I felt the Starlighters' production was superior to the movie version.

Our Bob Wallace (Neal Caraway) was not only more handsome than Bing, but he had a better voice. Our Haynes sisters (Barb Andreesen and Sarah Olsem) beat out Rosemary Clooney and whoever it was who played her sister. Even our General (David Jepsen) was for more convincing than the movie version.

The supporting cast at Starlighters continued to shine above the movie stars. Rhoda and Rita (Emily Bartels and Carole Anne Beulne) were fun and very talented. Accolades must also be saved for the “concierge” of the Inn (Tracie Hodina) and a wonderful young actress who played the general's granddaughter, Susan (Ashely Kerslake).

The entire cast was talented, well directed, and as far as I'm concerned, Anamosa's Starlighters Theatre should be considered “off Broadway” by only a couple of thousand miles.

Vicki Hughes

Marion