By Robin Storey

We here on the other side of the Sound sometimes forget what remarkable professional theater is available to us just a ferry ride away.

“Seven Brides For Seven Brothers” is is a terrific family show for the holidays. It may not be your usual Christmasy story, but it’s sure a great time out for anyone. My husband and I went with our twenty-something son and his date, and we all enjoyed it.

This production sticks fairly close to the original movie (yes, this was an Academy Award winning movie in 1954 by Stanley Donen before it was a stage production) but it is updated appropriately for today’s audience.

The story takes place back when we were the Oregon territory and is a real Northwest tale. It’s an old fashioned musical and does have a bit of cornyness in it, however, the talent and energy of this terrific, professional cast will entertain even the musical snob among you. My husband can fall asleep at musicals on occasion, but not this one. The voices are wonderful — ah, the Johnny Mercer lyrics — and the dancing is outstanding. It seemed once the dancing started it didn’t stop, showing great athleticism and style. A standing ovation to all involved and particularly to choreographer Patti Colombo.

As you can tell, I was impressed and highly recommend a night out at the 5th Avenue Theatre while “Seven Brides For Seven Brothers” is there — through December 28. Don’t miss it.