Charles Dickens, that Victorian-era author and general champion of the poor and downtrodden, wrote A Christmas Carol in 1843. The novella was a blockbuster for its time, and a critical success. Here, 175 years later, the story of Scrooge and his change of heart after visits from three ghosts — Christmas Past, Present, and Future — still is relevant and heartwarming.
The Indiana Repertory Theatre has made A Christmas Carol a must-see holiday tradition. The adaptation by Tom Haas has been performed by the IRT from 1980 through 1984, and then returned in 1996. In the 26 years it has graced the stage downtown, thousands have seen Scrooge and Tiny Tim, the Fezziwigs, and the terrifying “children” Ignorance and Want — and yet, it never gets old. This year’s director Benjamin Hanna coaxes performances from his Scrooge (Ryan Artzberger) and Bob Cratchit (Rob Johansen) that avoid the overly-sweet sentimentality that causes some to roll their eyes and mutter “bah humbug.” Reggie D. White as Scrooge’s nephew Fred and the lovely Ashley Dillard as Felicity his wife give understanding performances — they know the old man won’t change his ways, but they try to inspire good cheer nonetheless. Charles Goad as Marley’s Ghost is scary; Christmas Past (Stephenie Soohyun Park) brings laughter and silliness to the proceedings, but the horrors of Scrooge’s future are fully illustrated.
Scenic designer Russell Metheny and Costume Designer Murell Horton bring the story to life by setting the appropriate atmosphere: dim streetlights, lots of snow, swirling skirts, ragged jackets on Tiny Tim, and a grim graveyard scene are all in tune with the message of the work.
The show is a delight, emphasizing the capacity for change in the face of a dire, unloved future. Tickets go fast for A Christmas Carol, which runs through December 26. Visit online at IRTLive.com or call 317-635-5252 for availability.
