A GLORIOUS CHRISTMAS TO ALL
REVIEW: A CHRISTMAS CAROL
BY RYAN M. LUÉVANO
It’s that wonderful time of year once again: A Noise Within Theatre Company’s A Christmas Carol returns in a production that’s as glorious as ever. This classic Charles Dickens tale from 1843 is expertly adapted for the stage by co-director Geoff Elliot, who also plays the title role. Elliot’s stage adaptation brings Dickens’ work to life for the stage in a way that’s whimsical and poignant—everything we love about this story is here and Scrooges redemption is just as heartfelt.
Geoff Elliott and Deborah Strang. Photo Credit: Craig Schwartz.
From the onset Christmas is busting out all over in the Noise With auditorium. Before the show begins audiences are treated to original festive music created for this production by Ego Plum. This along with the dazzling set by Jeanine A. Ringer that serves to get audiences in the holiday spirit. And once the performance begins we are immediately transported into the world of Ebenezer Scrooge and the ghosts of Christmas. Furthermore, the choice of utilizing a narrator for this play is adds to the delight of this production. Freddy Douglas as the narrator is thoroughly engaging—a natural storyteller.
What’s immediately striking throughout the production is the elegant and dramatic lighting design by Brandon Hawkinson who with co-directors incorporates noir traits to this Christmas tale. Throughout the play there are various moments that utilize a contrast of light and dark as well as the use of silhouette and shadow that creates a sense of mystery. These moments when followed by the bright scenes work well to orient the audience to past and present and the dark to brightness of Scrooges soul as he strives for salvation by the end of the play.
Ensemble. Photo Credit: Craig Schwartz.
Geoff Elliot as Scrooge is fascinating and exceptional—a portrayal that represents the Scrooge we know, but also offers traces of his humanity and humility that makes the payoff of his redemption ever more substantial. Scrooges former business partner Jacob Marley (Jeremy Rabb) is captivating and his chain-link costume piece makes his entrance and presence on stage even more spectacular. Rafael Goldstein plays both Scrooge’s nephew Fred and young Scrooge; he is poised and polished as Fred and displays a compelling performance as the latter offering glimpses as to why Scrooge is has become an old miser. A Noise Within’s A Christmas Carol boasts a wonderful large ensemble that includes many talented children who are the direct products of the theatre company’s acting programs.
‘Tis the season to experience the joy of Christmas on stage and A Christmas Carol presented by A Noise Within is the perfect place to start.
Performance Dates and Times:
Friday, December 9 at 8pm
Saturday, December 10 at 2 and 8pm
Sunday, December 11 at 2 and 7pm
(Pay-What-You-Can for 7pm performance only)
Friday, December 16 at 8pm
Saturday, December 17 at 2 and 8pm
Sunday, December 18 at 2pm
Wednesday, December 21 at 7:30pm
Thursday, December 22 at 7:30pm
Friday, December 23 at 8pm
Tickets and information:
Website: www.anoisewithin.org; Phone: 626-356-3100 ex 1
