A Christmas Carol - Guthrie Theatre

I did something brand new last night and that was going to see A Christmas Carol at the Guthrie Theater. Yes, yes, yes, I know it has been playing annually (almost) since 1975. I don't really have much of a reason to have not seen it, except that I am a bit of a Scrooge myself. However, when a chance arose to see it with Jill from Cherry and Spoon, on Opening Night? I couldn't say no.

I am so glad I did. It tells a story that I think the majority of us already know, however to see it staged is so different than reading it, or watching a filmed version (even if it is the brilliant Muppet's Christmas Carol). Personally I first performed a version of this back in 6th grade - playing Bob Cratchit (I believe) - as part of a fun project for our class. I then did two monologes adapted from it in my first professional acting gig while I was in college. Most recently, I have worked and performed in a parody version playing Scrooge's nephew, as well as his good friend Dick. So I know the story well. Despite that, seeing it on stage at the Guthrie was still a fantastic experience, and yes, I got a bit teary at the end.

The production is a joy to watch. The action moves quickly, and there is always a good visual on stage. The Guthrie, in this adaptation by Lavina Jadhwani, includes quite a bit of singing and dancing to the story - a great mix of traditional carols, hymns, and some original songs as well. The set moves quickly and smoothly through out providing great visuals that clearly set each scene, but also tie the whole show together. Then again, from a production viewpoint, I don't expect anything less from the Guthrie. 

Costumes, lighting, acting - all top notch. Matthew Saldivar as Scrooge is so clear in his characters transformation through out the visitations that there was no doubt that Scrooge would be a changed man. I bring this up because I have seen some versions where it seems Scrooge is the same person until the final ghost, but in this production I got the sense that a part of Scrooge wanted to change from the moment after Marley left. That really rounds out the character of Scrooge in my view. John Catron as Bob Cratchit was perfection. Not a single weak link in the whole cast. And the way the ghosts were portrayed and presented? wonderful. The Ghost of Christmas Future is scary, but beyond that the show is perfect for the whole family....all ages. Even if the young ones may not understand every word of Dicken's language, the direction by Addie Gorlin-Han, along with the choreography of Regina Peluso (of Collide Theatrical Dance Company) tells the story in a way that not every word needs to be understood. The essence of the show and story is clear, and I see now why it is an annual tradition for so many people.

If you have never seen it, I recommend taking the time. The playing time (with an intermission) is less than two hours. It plays through Dec 30th. AND if this is your first time seeing the show, you can get a fun certificate! Trust me, it is good for all ages.