Meadow Brook Theatre Presents A CHRISTMAS CAROL, 11/15-12/22

The familiar story of Scrooge, Tiny Tim and the ghosts that change a life is a holiday favorite and annual tradition for scores of families in the area. "'A Christmas Carol' is our gift to southeast Michigan," said Cheryl Marshall, MBT managing director. "People come back year after year. Maybe they saw it 20 years ago with a school group and now want to share it with their children. It's a magical event."

MBT veteran Tom Mahard, returns to the role of Ebenzer Scrooge this year. Mahard has played Scrooge for the past few years, but has appeared in one role or another in more than 1,000 performances throughout the 32 years MBT has presented the seasonal favorite.

Once again this year, two local children have the honor of sharing the role of Tiny Tim. Andrew Guest of Rochester Hills, and Jack Sanitate of Washington. Each has several turns as the boy who helps Scrooge find his Christmas spirit. The cast also includes Mark Rademacher (Ghost of Jacob Marley), Sara Catheryn Wolf (Spirit of Christmas Past), Paul Hopper (Spirit of Christmas Present), Matt Siadak (Spirit of Christmas Future), and Tobin Hissong and Jean Lyle Lepard as Bob and Mrs. Cratchit.

Meadow Brook is pleased to have over two dozen professional Michigan actors in its largest cast of the season. "We've been presenting "A Christmas Carol" for more than 30 years now. A lot of years it's like a family reunion, and our audience is part of that family," said Travis Walter, MBT artistic director.

The Meadow Brook Theatre adaptation was written and originally staged by Charles Nolte. MBT Associate Director Terry W. Carpenter directs this season's production, with original choreography by Jan Puffer. Scenic design is by Peter Hicks, lighting by Reid G. Johnson, costumes by Mary Pettinato and sound design by Mike Duncan.

Tickets range from $18 to $41 and are available by calling the Meadow Brook Theatre box office at 248-377-3300 or going online at www.ticketmaster.com. Groups of eight or more should call 248-370-3316 for group discounts.

There are several opportunities for families to save money, including tickets discounted for the whole family Nov. 15, 16 and 17; and Nov 22, 23 and 24, when children 12 and under are half price.

This production of "A Christmas Carol" is made possible through the continued support of The Kresge Foundation, The Fred A. and Barbara M. Erb Family Foundation, and Extended Stay Hotels.

Meadow Brook Theatre is located on the campus of Oakland University in Rochester, Mich. For addition information, please visit www.mbtheatre.com. Meadow Brook Theatre is a nonprofit, cultural institution serving southeast Michigan for 48 years.