BWW Reviews: Theater Three's 28th Annual Showing of 'A CHRISTMAS CAROL

If anything gets you into the Christmas spirit, it will be seeing Theater Threes' annual production of "A Christmas Carol". Jeffrey Sanzel, who directs and stars as Ebenezer Scrooge, has brought together an incredible cast and crew to tell this timeless Charles Dickens' tale.

This season marks Mr. Sanzels' 1000th performance as Scrooge. This feat is not surprising as he was excellent in the role. As I was leaving the theater, I heard many say how happy they were that he has continued with the show. In addition, with thunder clapping in the background and chains and lightning surrounding him, Steve McCoy gave a powerful performance as Jacob Marley. The way they changed the voices of all the ghosts was brilliant as it really drew the audience into the dream sequences. The whole cast was really wonderful.

Being set in the 19th century, the costumes were relevant to the time period. The most elaborate was the "Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come". Standing at 10 feet tall, if not taller, Bonnie Vidal and Randall Parsons made this faceless spirit extra frightening. Brett Chizever operated the structure. That combined with the fog and eerie lighting effects, expertly done by Robert W. Henderson, Jr., no doubt brought extra goose bumps to the arms of the nearly sold out audience.

When Scrooge wakes up and is forever changed from his cold, mean ways, it makes you think of what Christmas is all about. The hustle and bustle of families celebrating Christmas morning and Scrooge giving out money and presents to his less fortunate neighbors proved extremely moving. Most heartwarming was Scrooge providing dinner to the family of his clerk, Bob Cratchit, played by Douglas J. Quattrock.

A beautiful set, great cast and crew, and a classic story make this a terrific holiday season event. Now in its 28^th year at the Port Jefferson, NY theater, this play is a staple in the community. With many involved in balancing work and family, time rushes by and it is nice to have a wakeup call to bring things into perspective.

"A Christmas Carol" is presented by Theater Three of Port Jefferson, NY. Adapted and Directed by Jeffrey Sanzel; Music Director and Sound Effects, Ellen Michelmore; Production Stage Manager, Michelle Manda; Technical Direction, Neil Creedon Avancy, Inc.; Lighting Design, RoBert Henderson, Jr.; Scenic Design,Randall Parsons; Costume Design, Bonnie Vidal and Randall Parsons. Running now thru December 27th. For tickets and information call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

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