By Kristen Weyer.
As I woke to the softly falling snow last Sunday morning, my first thought was how perfect a thing to happen on the day I was to see A Christmas Carol at Theatre Three. With the crisp, chill air upon us and the holidays fast approaching, what better way to start getting into the holiday spirit than with the classic favorite A Christmas Carol. Originally written by Charles Dickens in 1843, few stories are more beloved and retold than this one. Brilliantly adapted and directed by Jeffrey Sanzel, A Christmas Carol is an absolute must-see for your holiday season.
Let me make one thing perfectly clear, if you do nothing else festive outside your home this Christmas, you need to come see this show. Theatre Three’s A Christmas Carol is one of the best shows I have ever seen, period. From the adaptation, to the set and costumes, and the fabulous characterizations all the pieces of this production seem to join together into a delicious whole. Sanzel’s genius in this adaption cannot be denied as every moment on the stage so obviously shows. From subtle moments: a look, a sound, a single added line you’ve never heard before, but which adds so much depth to a character or feeling you wish every version you’ve ever seen contained it; to big choices, I don’t want to spoil any of the surprises but suffice it to say that Marley and the Ghost of Christmas Yet To Come are intense. Seriously, they’re scary, which they should be (it’s awesome) but don’t bring small children (kids under 5 are not permitted for this show). I didn’t think it was possible after all these years of seeing version after version, but I left with a more profound understanding of Scrooge’s character, and deeper appreciation for this extraordinary tale.
The magnificent, multi-layered set by Randall Parsons is very impressive. Its’ levels, and hideaways are cleverly used and unfolded to reveal hidden depths. Gorgeous pieces bring the set to life; a stunning period bed, a church complete with stained glass windows, and smaller details which add realism and visual complexity. Bolstering all of this are the wonderfully accurate historical costumes, also by Parsons, which help pull you further into Dickens’ world. The same holds true for the lighting, and special effects employed by designer Robert W. Henderson Jr. Strobe lights flash, flames flicker, darkness descends and fog rolls over the stage as we embark with Scrooge on his incredible journey. The cleverness in the progression of time through Scrooge’s history and the development of his character made the “Buy, Sell” scene one of my favorites. There is subtlety and simplicity woven together with the intricacies of other moments which stunningly combines to achieve a visually and emotionally magical effect.
Jeffrey Sanzel’s depiction of Scrooge is fantastic. His timing and tonality, characterization and facial expressions all combine perfectly, he understands his character and it shows. Douglas J. Quattrock shines as the loyal downtrodden Mr. Cratchit. His mannerisms and portrayal are spot-on and endearing, and he wins over our affections immediately. The Ghosts of Christmas are exactly what you want them to be, Michelle LaBozzetta as Past is ethereal, Stephen T. Wangner as Present is jolly, and Steven Uihlein as Yet To Come is creepy. So is Marley, convincingly played by Andrew Lenahan. Fezziwig and his wife are merrily played by Kyle Imperatore and Ginger Dalton with infectious cheer, and Fred is heartwarmingly and charmingly portrayed by Steven Uihlein. Many of the cast take on multiple roles in the performance, and with a change of costume and a different accent, bring a whole new character to life. The children in the cast are exceedingly impressive and, as there are two casts of kids, will alternate performances. Tiny Tim is adorable, Want is heartbreaking and haunting, and Fan is charming and lovely. The Ivy Cast is comprised of: Audrey Kelly, Cassandra La Rocco, Ellie Dunn, Edward Langston, Kiernan Urso, Amber Walkowiak, Leah Romero, and Finn Thomas. The Holly Cast is comprised of: Julie Friedman, Sophia Knapp, Holly D’Accordo, Cameron Turner, David Lafler, Alexa Eichinger, Kailey D’Accordo, and Aidan Sharkey.
Over a century and a half has passed since Dickens first wrote A Christmas Carol, yet its message remains relevant and its appeal undiminished. While many versions are worth seeing, Theatre Three’s production is truly remarkable and should not be missed. So go and enjoy every “Bah Humbug!” and “God bless us, everyone!”