There have been a few times where we reviewed a movie or stage production more than once, but there has only been one that we have reviewed multiple times. If you have been with us for a while, then you know that once again, we have the honor of checking out the stage production of “A Christmas Carol” at the Wyly Theater in Dallas.
Based on the classic novel by Charles Dickens, this year’s production stars Brandon Potter as Ebenezer Scrooge, Ian Ferguson as Bob Cratchit, Tiana Kaye Blair as The Ghost of Christmas Past, and Ace Anderson as Jacob Marley. For those unfamiliar, it’s mid-19th century London, and the grumpy Ebenezer Scrooge learns a lesson about humanity and generosity after he is visited by the spirit of his late business partner Jacob Marley and three spirits on Christmas Eve.
The Wyly uses the same set of Scrooge’s factory each year while using the stage itself to frame other scenes, and as usual, I was not disappointed. The cast is fine, with Potter playing a textbook Scrooge, and even though they change the role each year and stretch the definition of who the character is, going old school once in a while is fine. Of course there is always something new each year with The Ghost of Christmas Present, and Coda Boyce, who does very well with the spunky and lively character.
The production itself is about ninety minutes long with no intermission, and while this was not my favorite version of the ones I have seen, I still enjoyed myself. This production has become a tradition for me, and regardless of whether this is your first time or the sixth time seeing it, you cannot go wrong. I will defiantly recommend this production with the rating of just get into the door, due to no matter the price: it is worth it!