"A Beef & Boards Christmas 2010" in Indianapolis

Located on the northwest side of Indianapolis in College Park, the Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre opened in 1973. It has earned the reputation of providing a delicious buffet followed by a live show. "A Beef and Boards Christmas" 2010 edition continues this fine Indianapolis holiday tradition. Patterned roughly after vintage TV variety shows like Ed Sullivan and Red Skelton, this year's offering includes a potpourri of Holiday songs, stories and skits. The Orchestra remains center stage during the entire performance.

Eddy Currie stars as the announcer/emcee and delights the audience with sometimes tired but still humorous jokes throughout the performance. Singers and dancers combine their skills in the festive renditions of classics including "Silent Night", "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus", "Christmas Song", and of course "White Christmas".

During Act 1 a very unique piece is presented. Three of the cast dress in Chipmunk costumes. Yes, Simon, Theodore and Alvin come on stage with the two child stars, 10 year old Anna Miller and 8 year old Sydney Miller. "The Chipmunk Song" is a delightful whimsical song that was a big hit with the children in the audience. Not to be outdone, Act 2 brings us a lively performance of "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer." A costumed Rudolph actually flew onto the stage with a nifty cable system mounted over the audience.

Several dance routines are interspersed in the playbill. Two dancers, Kenny Shepard and Deb Wims, are leads in many of the pieces. In addition, six other dancers perform a variety of exciting and high kicking routines to the Christmas songs. "Marshmallow World" includes all of the dancers in a cute routine with all in Raggedy Ann and Andy costumes.

The Beef & Boards venue is one of the most comfortable you will ever find. Multiple seating levels provide great visibility of the stage. Tables are available for two, four, and larger groups if needed. There is ample space, and you never feel cramped or crowded.

The buffet meal created by Chef Odell Ward will definitely please any appetite. Tender roast beef and turkey are carved at the end of the serving line and are coupled with Boston baked cod for the main entrees. Steamed vegetables, fancy O'Brien corn, dressing and gravy and roasted sweet potatoes round out the offerings. In addition, the salad bar has very fresh and well presented selections. Desserts, however, are an additional charge, as are drinks other than tea and coffee. You have plenty of time to eat, and all are encouraged to return for seconds. If you leave hungry, it is your own fault.

"Beef & Boards Christmas 2010" makes a delightful evening out for a couple, a family or a group. And least I forget, Santa makes many appearances during the show, including direct interaction with the audience. Merry Christmas!

Sources:
Personally enjoyed the matinee performance on 12/18/2010
Beef & Boards