A Christmas Carol at Alley Theatre

David Rainey as Ebenezer Scrooge Reflecting on His Life
in Alley Theatre's Production of A CHRISTMAS CAROL.
Photo by Lynn Lane.

Many already know the story of A CHRISTMAS CAROL. A CHRISTMAS CAROLtells the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, an elderly, negative man who is only focused on profits and pessimism. He is then visited by the ghost of his former business partner, Jacob Marley, and the spirits of Christmas Past, Present, and Future. After their enlightening visits, Scrooge is transformed into a kinder, gentler man ready to celebrate the joys of the holiday season.

However, despite the many productions and movies I have seen of this timeless story, I truly believe that this production was the most exciting telling that I have experienced. Live music, active puppets, and daring spectacle kept the piece enchanting every single moment. The production was also so polished and smooth, with one scene quickly transitioning into the next, making the story constantly flow forward and fly by.

The ensemble of actors was well-casted and incredibly engaging. I was most impressed by how so many of them played multiple different characters. Every actor made each of their characters unique and found the sincerity in each one. To name a few, Elizabeth Bunch (who played The Ghost of Christmas Past, Polly, Caroline, and more) was so beautiful and delicate in her portrayal of The Ghost of Christmas Past. Christine Friale (who played Mrs. Fezziwig, Cornelia, and Doll amongst others) stood out to me. She led the dancing with such flair, played a younger flirting girl with such hilarity, and was a frightening robber later in the performance. Each character she created always caught my eye. David Rainey, who brought Ebenezer Scrooge to life, was astonishing. At the beginning of the show, he was able to say such harmful phrases and unenthusiastic leers with such clarity and authenticity. Seeing Scrooge grow as his walls broke down was extremely heart-warming. Shawn Hamilton, who was The Ghost of Christmas Present in addition to being a part of the ensemble, was my favorite character. He is so captivating and funny; who knew the Ghost of Christmas Present could have such sass and dazzle! Last, but certainly not least, the children ensemble of the show was so adorable and professional, authentically bringing the streets of London to us. Their young voices brought a vibrant energy to the Christmas carols sung throughout the show, making me melt.

Youth Cast:

Sebastian Ramirez, as Young Scrooge 

Caleb Ramirez, as Peter Cratchit 

Kate Sanchez, as Belle 

Tiny Tim, Lucas Benitez