Review: Nebraska Theatre Caravan's A CHRISTMAS CAROL Lights Up the Season at Fox Cities P.A.C.

Nebraska Theatre Caravan's A CHRISTMAS CAROL performed at the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center on Tuesday, November 15. This spectacular production of the classic is entertaining, lively and as powerful as ever.

The celebrated, timeless tale of overcoming social injustice and poverty through generosity and kindness embodies the Christmas spirit.

Set during the Industrial Revolution, A CHRISTMAS CAROL follows Ebenezer Scrooge, a cold-hearted boss who overworks and underpays his employee, Bob Cratchit. After the Ghost of Christmas Past, the Ghost of Christmas Present and the Ghost of Christmas Yet-to-Come show him shocking visions, Scrooge realizes the error of his ways.

Nebraska Theatre Caravan's A CHRISTMAS CAROL brings new life to the old classic by incorporating vivid costumes and sets, dancing and traditional Christmas carols. This unique take on the tale converts what can be a depressing, downtrodden tale into a lively, dynamic show.

The show leans on traditional Victorian imagery to present what has become the Christmas ideal: full skirts on women, top coats and hats on men and plenty of candles. Snow even falls through many scenes, making the stage look like a moving snow globe.

The entire cast is strong, but Andy Harvey is a real star as Scrooge. His strong, bellowing voice lends well to Scrooge's intimidating image, but Harvey's gift for humor and sympathetic portrayal of the famous grouch makes audiences simultaneously pity and root for him. The change in Scrooge's character often seems abrupt and unlikely, but Harvey makes it feel completely logical.

To make the event even more festive, Fox Cities Performing Arts Center was fully decked out for the holiday season, and pre-show Christmas music (provided as a Community First Community Engagement Activity) filled the main lobby.

All in all, seeing a show at the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center is a festive treat, and Nebraska Theatre Caravan's A CHRISTMAS CAROL was the perfect kick-off to the holiday season.

Photo Credit: Nebraska Theatre Caravan's A CHRISTMAS CAROL