'The Wonder Bread Years' is a fun filled trip down Memory Lane

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This big, wide world is full of differences but no matter if you are rich or poor, 30 years old or 92, from Ohio or New York, everyone has a past. A common element we all share are memories of growing up, which shaped our lives, and are remembered in ‘The Wonder Bread Years.’

Written and performed by Pat Hazell, ‘The Wonder Bread Years’ is a bag filled with fresh slices of Americana, buttered up with heart warming laughs. From Dairy Queen to playing with the Nativity Scene figurines, many aspects of childhood are touched upon.

It was with a sense of wonderment that I attended the performance, being held at the Victoria Theatre through Dec. 19. I mainly wanted to see it because the title sounded like a humorous show and it reminded me of the beloved television series, ‘The Wonder Years.’ While Kevin Arnold is nowhere to be found, like the sitcom was, ‘The Wonder Bread Years,’ is a look back to the times that shaped our current selves.

There is no cast, elaborate or even simple musical numbers, ‘The Wonder Bread Years,’ is a one man show. Minus the two drink minimum and opening act, it’s pretty much the same as going to a comedy club. Pat Hazell is alone on stage, delivering lots of laughs and not needing four-letter words to do so. His endearing personality draws you in for the trip down memory lane.

At first I feared that I may be a generation away from being able to relate to the show, but was surprised by how much I ended up seeing of myself. Though Hazell is not billed as an illusionist, the true magic of show is how every age group is united by the memories. I don’t think that David Copperfield could even do that trick with such perfection.

For example, Hazell talks about being crammed into the back of the station wagon for family vacations, to such places as the Corn Palace in South Dakota. (I’ve been there.) Being relegated to the kid’s table at Thanksgiving, year after year, waiting for an uncle to die off to claim their seat. I for one, am still waiting! Like Hazell, we also always had chili for dinner on Trick-or-Treat night and remember trading the ‘loot’ after it had all been collected.

Did you ever have to wear bread bags over your shoes in the snow? I did, and that is touched upon too. As well as memories from Show & Tell. Beyond is sharp wit, Hazell also impresses with his fiery talents, which puts his well being at risk.

A popular feature of the show is a slide show presentation, where Hazell shares pictures from his youth. Snapshots from family vacations, Halloween and Christmas mornings are included. Home movies have never been more fun, and I bet you will see yourself in some of them.

The show is also blessed with a local connection as Jenny Swigart of the Coldwater Café in Tipp City is the Stage Manager. She allows for a seamless moving performance with her touch of theatrical expertise.

During this holiday season, treat yourself to a laugh filled trip down memory lane with Pat Hazell and ‘The Wonder Bread Years,’ now through December 19 at the Victoria Theatre. For tickets visit www.ticketcenterstage.com