The play was adapted from “A Christmas Carole” by Charles Dickens is being performed at the Alhambra Dinner Theatre by Tod Booth Productions, Inc.
THE STORY
An old miser is visited by three ghosts who show him the error of his ways in a classic tale that conveys a strong message. In today’s world, it is easy to get caught up in work and responsibilities and forget what is really important during the holiday season — enjoying life and giving to others. Everyone needs to treasure the people around them instead of being a selfish and uncaring.
THE CHARACTERS
Ebenezer Scrooge was played by Tony Triano, a regular performer at the Alhambra. Triano took more of a comical approach to the character, which lightened the mood of the play substantially while still conveying the message. He showed a wonderful range of emotion as he went from being a mean old man being frightened by the ghosts that visited him to the benevolent and caring man.
Nephew Fred was played by Robert E. Butterley. Fred narrated the play and tried to convince Uncle Scrooge to take a moment and enjoy the Christmas season. He was a wonderful match for Scrooge as they bantered back and forth about the holiday season. Fred was trying to convince Scrooge to enjoy Christmas but Scrooge would only talk about how awful the season was.
Bob Cratchit was played by Cody Gay. Cratchit was Scrooge’s assistant who tried to make ends meet on the meager salary paid by Scrooge. He had a sick child at home, Tiny Tim, played by Christopher Robertson; a wife Dorothy, played by Deborah Ramsay-Smith; and a daughter, Sarah, played by Jessica Booth. He worked long hours to support his family and was never rewarded for his hard work.
Marley and the other Christmas ghosts were played by Kenneth Uibel. As Marley, Uibel did a wonderful job of scaring Scrooge into thinking about his life and reevaluating some of his actions.
As the Ghost of Christmas Past, he did a good job reminding Scrooge how much fun he used to have with his friends and past lover, Belle, before he became obsessed with money. As the Ghost of Christmas Present, he showed Scrooge things about his current life that he was too busy to realize. As the Ghost of Christmas Future, he showed Scrooge what would happen to him if he didn’t change his ways.
WILL YOU LIKE IT?
Yes. If you have seen other performances of “Christmas Carole,” Triano’s portrayal of Scrooge may be a surprise. He is not as serious or nasty as most Scrooges. If you are looking for a light-hearted, fun show, this one is perfect. There is a lot of singing and dancing and the ending brought tears to the eyes of some patrons.
IS IT EXPENSIVE?
Dinner and show prices range from $35 - $46, plus tax. Discounts are available for seniors, active military and young adults 17 and under. Shows are Tuesday-Sunday evening and Saturday and Sunday matinees.
HOW LONG IS THE SHOW RUNNING?
Through Dec. 24. Call 641-1212 for reservations.
MORE INFORMATION
www.alhambradinnertheatre.com .
—by Michele Newbern Gillis