Long Beach Playhouse Presents A CHRISTMAS CAROL, Now thru 12/23

For nearly 170 years, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim, Ebenezer Scrooge and the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future have reminded us that even the most miserly can find redemption in kindness and generosity toward others. This year the Long Beach Playhouse brings Dickens' story to life in its Mainstage Theater from tonight, December 8 through 23.

"A Christmas Carol is a classic in which the epitome of a tight-fisted miser, Ebenezer Scrooge, is shown the poverty of his material wealth and the blessings that come with generosity," said Andrew Vonderschmitt, LBP's producing artistic director. "It's a great show for all ages. Its messages are as timely today as they were in nineteenth century England."

The cast for LBP's A Christmas Carol is a blend of Playhouse veterans and those making their first appearances on its stage. Directing the cast is Gregory Cohen, who has directed many plays for LBP over the years, including the recent hit, Into the Woods.

Tiny Tim is played by 11-year-old Jaren Rhodes, making his first appearance at The Playhouse. Although new to the LBP, Jaren has several plum roles to his credit including the title role of Oliver in the musical of the same name. Bob Cratchit is brought to life by Rick Reischman. He is particularly fond of the play as it was the first play in which he appeared. Steven Shane, whose most recent LBP production was Into the Woods is Jacob Marley, Scrooge's departed business partner. Ebenezer Scrooge is played by Dan Rodgers.

As always, the cast will be beautifully costumed by Donna Fritsche whose work always helps tell the story through thoughtful designs.

"A Christmas Carol is the perfect way to greet the holiday season whether one celebrates Christmas, Hanukah, Kwanza or simply enjoys a well-told story that reminds us that the way we live our lives means more than the material goods we collect along the way," says Vonderschmitt. "The beloved and timeless characters tell a story that all will enjoy, and I hope many will find time to come be part of the magic that is A Christmas Carol."

The show opens tonight, December 8 and continues on Thursday nights (8pm), Friday nights (8 p.m.), Saturday nights (8 p.m.) and Sunday matinees, (2 p.m.) through Saturday, December 23, 2012.

Performances are 8 p.m. Friday, and Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. The box office is open Wednesday-Saturday from 3:00-8:00 pm & Sundays from 1:00-2:00 pm on scheduled matinees only. For more information or to purchase tickets visit www.lbplayhouse.org or call 562-494-1014.

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