Seeing Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol live onstage is a wonderful holiday tradition. And this year’s production at the Indiana Repertory Theater is a special treat, offering an experience that immerses the audience in the mood and literary elements of the original story, while creating connection between the characters and the audience. The sets and lighting worked together to create a beautifully spooky atmosphere, highlighting the ghostly elements of the classic tale. Rob Johansen starred as Scrooge, and his performance was moving and compelling. His performance was enhanced by seven very talented ensemble actors, who seamlessly switched characters and brought the whole story to life, each adding layers of perspective. All of the performances were amazing, including Scrooge’s real life wife Jennifer Johansen and rising star Elliot Sagay’s performance as nephew Fred was notably moving.
Director Janet Allen chose this version of the classic tale as her swan song at IRT; she is retiring as Artistic Director after this year, the theater’s 50th anniversary year, having herself served 27 years with IRT. This particular adaptation was written by her mentor, and former IRT Artistic Director, the late Tom Haas and includes often forgotten excerpts and dialogue from the original novella, illuminating the human condition, and providing a showcase for incredible acting.
A Christmas Carol plays through Dec. 24. Visit irtlive.com for ticket availability and information.
