Continuing a holiday tradition for the 43rd year, the Glendale Centre Theatre presents an even better (if possible) musical adaptation of Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol," with more music, special effects and general Christmas cheer than ever.
Director
Tim Dietlein opens this year's performance with a live prologue, complete with the famous "dead as a doornail" quote. Then from alternating corners of this theater-in-the-round, narrators (
Marisa Chandler, Mark Gates and
Minda Grace Ware) begin telling the story of the miserly Scrooge (played for the 33rd time by the lovable, veteran actor
Mario DiGregorio).
As first Marley, and then the Ghosts of Christmases Past (
Marisa Chandler), Present (
James Jaboro) and Future (
Gene Creese) show Scrooge glimpses of himself and snatches of his own words, we see the stingy old fellow experiencing nostalgia, regret, and anguish. Finally, after a graveyard scene where he sees a tombstone bearing his own name, Scrooge promises to change his ways ... if it's not too late.
(Insider note for repeat patrons: the other tombstones bear the names of actors who have played Scrooge in the past. If you look carefully through the mist, perhaps you will recognize a few.)
Throughout the performance, lively dancing, beautiful costumes and lovely a cappella singing will delight the audience. DiGreggorio always gets laughs as the reformed Scrooge who bustles about sharing his money and holiday cheer. (One almost thinks of Santa Claus!)
As always, theater-goers will embrace the endearing Cratchet family with its hard-working father (
James Betteridge), feisty wife (
Tiffany LaBarbera) and, of course, the diminutive but big-hearted Tiny Tim (played alternately by
Carter Thomas and
Travis Dietlein) with his "God Bless us Everyone!"
In the lobby, both before and after the show, costumed carolers entertain patrons. Adults and children can don 1800s coats and hats and be photographed in a sleigh (in the snow).
At a tiny Santa's shop, you can purchase hot chocolate, fudge brownies and toy items. Customary candy, cookies, soda and coffees are also sold.
Upon exiting the theater, children will especially enjoy the cold flutter of snowflakes on faces and shoulders. GCT's "A Christmas Carol" is a truly a holiday treat for all generations.
There are evening performances and matinees,Nov 29-Dec 23 - with special performances and times, so be sure to call for information and reservations at (818) 244-8481. Admission: $22, $25 and $28.
Glendale Centre Theatre is located at 324 N. Orange St., in Glendale.