As the temperatures drop to bone-chilling numbers, wrap yourself up in the warmth of the season with A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, now at Meadow Brook Theatre (MBT) on the campus of Oakland University in Rochester, Mich. through December 22, 2024.
Those who have been coming to see this perennial classic will notice the absence of Thomas D. Mahard, who embodied Ebenezer Scrooge for over 35 years. But not to worry. The part is in excellent hands.
Donning Scrooge’s nightcap this season is MBT favorite, Phil Powers. His interpretation is an energetic take on a well-known character and I, along with the audience, immensely enjoyed his performance. Powers has a wonderfully expressive demeanor that convincingly conveys annoyance, sorrow, and happiness. I found myself leaning in to soak up every nuance of his act. Another change this year is Travis W. Walter taking over the directing reins from Terry W. Carpenter and the show absolutely sparkles under his tutelage.
With 2025 peeking around the corner, this Charles Nolte adaptation of A Christmas Carol is perfectly timed to remind us of the importance of change, connection, and community.
The Spirit of Christmas Past (Mary Magyari), The Spirit of Christmas Present (David Aron Damane), and The Spirit of Christmas Future (Sean Ryan) each show Scrooge how changes to our personality and belief systems happen incrementally over time to the point we don’t notice how far we’ve strayed. Scrooge’s exuberant nephew Fred (Antonio Vettraino) relentlessly attempts to connect with his uncle because he knows how important they are. And finally, building a community is vital to getting through life together. Scrooge has the choice to make amends for his past as the ghost of his former business partner Jacob Marley (Anthony Guest) implores him to do so or live with the echoes of regret. Change requires effort, but the results for those who stick with the process can be magnificent.
Everything about this year’s production felt focused and sharp. I particularly enjoyed the interactions between Powers and Stephen Blackwell (Bob Cratchit). Cratchit is a loyal father and friend who hypes up anyone in his orbit, even though he has many reasons to throw in the towel. His connections and community give him the strength to keep going and it is always a delight to watch Blackwell throw himself into this role. Blackwell and Powers have great chemistry together adding a dynamic spark to their performances.
Other moments that filled me with happiness were David Aron Damane as the Ghost of Christmas Present. I loved Tamara Della Anderson in the role last year, but Damane’s booming voice and swagger made a powerful impression on me. Also, the scene featuring Mr. and Mrs. Fezziwig (Chip DuFord and Stephanie Nichols) is always a highlight. You can’t help but get caught up in the gaiety of the moment.
This year, it struck me that not enough is said about the smallest actors in the show. These elementary- and middle-school-aged children do a phenomenal job in their roles, and they are to be applauded for their commitment to this beloved tradition. It takes courage to share a professional stage with seasoned actors. So, Huzzah! to:
Mayaar Arraf-Shapiro (Londoner), Oliver Caloia (Turkey Boy), Ella Clauser (Londoner), Russell Clauser (Ignorance), Katie Grimm (Martha Cratchit), Tallulah Hodister (Londoner), Ella Hunnicutt (Martha Cratchit), Luke Hunnicutt (Peter Cratchit), Cate Jones (Want), Mary Lackaye (Want), Connor Maday (Matthew Cratchit), Keira Madill (Fan), Max Miller (Peter Cratchit), Conrad Nichols (Scrooge as a boy), Wyatt Reynolds (Turkey Boy), Maya Schaedel (Fan), Evelyn Spiro (Londoner), Robert Spiro (Ignorance), Annika Svensson (Belinda Cratchit), Chase Thomas (Matthew Cratchit), Victoria Tsamaidis (Londoner), Emery Lin (Scrooge as a boy), Eliza Zarrilli (Belinda Cratchit), and Annabel Zois (Londoner).
As in the past, the role of Tiny Tim is divided between two actors. In this production, Russell Clauser (at my performance) and Robert Spiro have the honor of playing the eternally optimistic youngest child of the Cratchits (Kristina Riegle as Mrs. Cratchit). A Christmas Carol is the embodiment of an ensemble show and all the roles are instrumental to its success. So, hat’s off to Katie Akers (Londoner), Jessica Boehmer (Fred’s Wife), Raegan Cantrelle (Charwoman), Tobin Hissong (2nd Charity Man/Old Joe), Katy Kujala (Belle), Jacob Lipski (Scrooge as a Young Man/Merchant), David Schoen (Merchant/Londoner), and Sam VanKampen (Dick Wilkins/Merchant).
This season’s production of A Christmas Carol shines a warm light of comfort and familiarity amid all the uncertainty of the future. After 42 years of gracing the MBT stage, it is a well-oiled production but the fresh faces and Travis W. Walter’s direction give it a new perspective that engages the audience and elicits many excited reactions.
There has never been a better time to make A Christmas Carol your new favorite holiday tradition. As the swag in the lobby proclaimed, “It’s a Dickens of a Good Time.’
The Meadow Brook Theatre adaptation was written and originally staged by Charles Nolte. Travis W. Walter directs this season’s production with original choreography by Jan Puffer. Scenic design is by Peter W. Hicks, lighting design by Reid G. Johnson, costume design by Mary Pettinato, and sound design by Mike Duncan. Brittanie Nichole Sicker, Stacy White, and Katie Hardy share stage management duties.
This performance runs for approximately two hours with a 15-minute intermission.
Please note that smoke, flash, and loud noises are used. MBT has rated this show for all ages.
Tickets range from $37 to $50 and are available by calling the Meadow Brook Theatre box office at 248-377-3300 or going online at www.Ticketmaster.com. Groups of eight or more should call 248-370-3316 for group pricing.
About Sarah Hovis