By Jessica Kennedy.
Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol has been called an immortal tale, which has a myth-like quality and is a staple of Western culture during the holiday season. As Jeffrey Sanzel, director and adaptor of Theatre Three’s version of this iconic play sees it, the classic characters conceived by Dickens have been reimagined more times than anyone could count. From Tiny Tim’s indomitable purity of heart, to Ebenezer’s sardonic rejection of all things merry and bright, the characters crafted by Dickens live in our hearts, in some shape or form, each year. Disney’s version starring Scrooge McDuck as his namesake was always a favorite of mine- that is until I saw Theatre Three’s version of the tale!
While the plot of this play has become a holiday trope, the cast and crew of this playhouse have managed to turn a timeless story into a must see for this season! This is the theater’s 35th annual performance of the musical, and it shows! Jeffrey Sanzel impressively embodies Ebenezer Scrooge, and skillfully presents the character in a unique and multi-faceted way. In each encounter with the spirits, we see his character in more depth. First, we have Jacob Marley’s emergence from a chamber below, which sets the tone for a truly haunting experience- Andrew Lenahan really knows how to command the audience’s attention! Next, we have Michelle LaBozzetta, who is equally chilling and enchanting, as the Ghost of Christmas Past. She is seamlessly followed by Stephen T. Wangner, jolly and boisterous, as the Ghost of Christmas Present. The scenes at the Fezziwig’s and the Halliwell’s are full of light, comedy, and joy- a clever and effective contrast to the darker edges of this seasonal cautionary tale. Even in its heavier moments, the actors portray the characters with reverence to the originals, but with enough style as to make the audience feel as if they are experiencing this story for the first time.
The development of Fan (the enchanting Heather Rose Kuhn ), the Fezziwigs (the lovable Richard Schindler and Ginger Dalton), and Ebenezer’s only love, Belle, (the gifted Nicole Bianco) help to humanize Ebenezer, making the audience more empathetic towards our miserly protagonist, and all that he has lost in the name of “business.” Likewise, the whole Cratchit family, led by their father, Bob (the endearing Douglas J. Quattrock), and revolving around the Christmas spirit personified in little Tiny Tim (the adorable Cameron Turner), bring the audience on an emotional rollercoaster whose twists and turns are only amplified when the final stop is Steven Uihlein’s show-stopping portrayal of the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come! The audience is on the edge of their seats until the final scene!
There are truly too many awe-inspiring moments in this show to possibly list! From the set and costumes (Randall Parsons) to the powerful immersion of light and sound into the show (Robert W. Henderson, Jr.), it is an all-inclusive theatrical experience! It is touching and cathartic to watch the heart of Ebenezer change, and his soul accept and embody the true meaning of Christmas. One of the final scenes between Ebenezer and the mute beggar (the haunting Addyson Urso) is perhaps the most poignant in this brilliant adaptation. Although Scrooge is finally sharing his wealth and worldly possessions, he has also learned that Christmas is not just about giving and receiving- it is about loving.
Running Time: approximately 135 minutes long with one 15 minute intermission.
Advisory: Although generally appropriate for children, there are scenes which involve loud music and imagery potentially frightening to little ones, so parents should be advised that the show may not be suitable for the tiniest theater-goers.
A Christmas Carol is playing at Theatre Three from November 17th- December 29th. The theatre is located at 412 Main St. Port Jefferson, NY. For tickets, contact the box office at (631) 928-9100 or click here.