By Kristen Weyer.
The Christmas season is in full swing, the big day nearly upon us, and the myriad of holiday traditions and must-haves are swirling around us like the first flurries of an anticipated storm. One of these necessary classics is Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Originally published in 1843, A Christmas Carol was instantly popular and has remained so ever since. Even with the numerous amounts of wonderful film versions available, the live theatre experience of this show is not to be missed. And Gateway’s production of A Christmas Carol the Broadway Musical is no exception. With a book by Mike Ockrent and Lynn Ahrens, and music by Alan Menken with lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, this production is directed by David Ruttura with choreography by Debbie Roshe.
The tale of Ebenezer Scrooge and his yuletide visit from the ghosts of Christmas needs little explanation, if any. It is a tale that is familiar to most, but if perchance you are new to it, the plotline is as follows. Ebenezer Scrooge is a horrible, nasty, old miser. He is cruel to strangers, his employee, and his only family. On one fateful Christmas Eve, he is visited by his dead business partner who sends three ghosts to help change Scrooge’s heart. The Ghost of Christmas Past, The Ghost of Christmas Present, and The Ghost of Christmas Yet To Come take Scrooge to different times and places, until he learns to look at Christmas and life in a new way.
The entire cast does an excellent job, from the lead of Scrooge himself to each and every ensemble member. While Scrooge is usually portrayed by Howard Pinhasik, who I’m sure is marvelous, I had the privilege of seeing Brian C. Veith take the stage. He performed the persnickety misery perfectly, and I greatly enjoyed watching his transformation into a changed man. The Ghost of Christmas Past is cheekily played by Morgan Billings Smith, while the jolly Ghost of Christmas Present is boisterously and energetically performed by Gerry McIntyre. Interestingly, the Ghost of Christmas Yet To Be is intensely portrayed by Saki Masuda in what is probably the least creepy version of the Ghost that I’ve yet to see. This might be good news for any parents wondering if they should bring the kids, but be forewarned, Marley IS creepy; impressively performed by Tom Lucca. Robert Anthony Jones and Renee Marie Titus bring infectious cheer to their portrayals of Mr. and Mrs. Fezziwig. Bob Cratchit is tenderly played by Ben Jacoby, and Bennett Schneider as Tiny Tim is just as adorable as you’re hoping.
With a fabulous set by designer Kelly Tighe, and stunning period costumes to complete the effect, this production is an enjoyable experience from start to finish.
Over a century and a half has passed since Dickens first wrote A Christmas Carol, yet its message remains relevant and its appeal undiminished. So go, whether for the first time, or to revisit an old favorite and enjoy it from “Bah Humbug!” to “God bless us, everyone!”
A Christmas Carol the Broadway Musical is running at Gateway Playhouse at the Patchogue Theater until December 28th. For more information and tickets click here.