Sedaris’ sarcastic, comedic and R-rated essay The Santaland Diaries tells the tale of out-of-work actor David. On his last dime and desperate for work, he replies to a classified ad for a Macy’s elf and assumes the role of Crumpet. What ensues is a hilarious—and non-PC—reminiscing of his week-long “elf training,” run-ins with impatient parents and his blunt, comedic observations about the commercial holiday season.
Triad Stage demonstrates Sedaris’ sarcastic humor in every element of their production of The Santaland Diaries with a clever set design, brilliantly embarrassing costuming and the acting of James Tunstall, who captures the flamboyance and devilish wit that is Crumpet.
At the beginning of the play, which is adapted by Joe Mantello and directed by Jeff Stanley, the set resembles that of an unemployed bachelor’s pad, bare and slightly dirty with an array of crushed beer cans scattered on the end table and floor. A large chair sits at center stage as the main prop.
But it’s after David accepts his job as a Macy’s elf that scenic designer Nicholas Hussong’s true cleverness is observed. In a matter of seconds the former hovel is transformed into Santa’s castle. Stacks of brown boxes open and out pop inflatable penguins, snowmen, nutcrackers and a giant Santa, right before our eyes.
From a door above the stage drops his costume — all but his shoes, of course. Tunstall is allowed to interact with the set and express his further hatred for the job as he has to stand on the chair to reach for them, grumbling “I hate this place.” As if having to wear the ridiculous suit wasn’t enough, he has to go through difficult lengths to even obtain it.
Tunstall then removes a blanket from the chair, revealing a red throne for Santa. Just as he hangs the “Santa Land” sign, the ceiling is lit with strings of white Christmas lights, noting the official transformation.
Crumpet’s costume alone is enough to make the audience sympathize with him as they guiltily laugh at his expense. Costume designer Andrew Cutler puts together a perfect over-the-top “uniform,” which consists of a pair of red-and-white striped tights, a pair of rust paisley bloomers, a yellow turtleneck, green elf jacket, pointy shoes and a stocking cap. “This is my work uniform,” Crumpet says with an insulted grin.
Tunstall’s performance is magnificent as he uses varying voice pitches, facial expressions and side-glares to express his attitude and mock a variety of characters. He brings to life the characters that Crumpet discusses by giving his best impressions, including that of “the overall cutest elf” Snowball.
“I’d follow you to Santa’s house any day, Crumpet,” Crumpet repeats as he reminisces about the gay elf’s flirtations. “Snowball just leads elves on, elves and Santas,” Crumpet says, “Snowball is playing a dangerous game.”
And no topic is too taboo for Crumpet’s griping, including the discussion of Santa’s race.
“Out of all the Santas, two are black and both are so light skinned that, with the beard and makeup, you would be hard-pressed to determine their race…. The last time I was the Pointer Elf, a woman approached me and whispered, ‘We would like a traditional Santa. I’m sure you know what I’m talking about.’ I sent her to Jerome.”
Throughout the play, Crumpet keeps the audience laughing, often pointing members out and interacting with them.
But besides poking fun at his lousy job and the obsession and commercialization of Christmas, Crumpet also learns a true valuable lesson from a mysterious Santa, who reminds him of the true meaning of Christmas.
Whether you’re looking to laugh your way into the holiday spirit or merely need a break from the humdrum of a crappy job, The Santaland Diaries are sure to please.
Wanna go?
The Santaland Diaries plays at Triad Stage’s UpStage Cabaret, 232 S. Elm St., Greensboro. Now until Dec. 23. Tickets are $15-$20 for adults, $3 off season pass holders. It is not recommended for young audiences. For tickets and more information call 336-272-0160 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 336-272-0160end_of_the_skype_highlighting or visit http://www.triadstage.org/. Tickets are sold out for both Dec. 15 shows and the 7:30 shows Dec. 17 and 18.
