Tom Atkins to Star in Pittsburgh CLO's 'A Musical Christmas Carol'

Pittsburgh CLO is proud to announce the casting of veteran television, film and theater star Tom Atkins as Scrooge in its annual production of A Musical Christmas Carol, which runs December 5-21 at the Byham Theater. Additional casting will be announced soon.

“Pittsburgh CLO is delighted to have an actor of Tom’s stature playing Ebenezer Scrooge in this holiday classic,” Pittsburgh CLO Executive Producer Van Kaplan said. “Audiences will enjoy a real treat when they see the interpretation he’ll bring to the Byham Theater stage.”

Mr. Atkins is a Pittsburgh native who has appeared in 14 Pittsburgh Public Theater productions, including his recent portrayal of the late iconic Pittsburgh Steelers owner Art Rooney Sr. in The Chief.  His film credits include Escape from New York, The Fog, Creepshow, Lethal Weapon, Bob Roberts, Striking Distance and Night of the Creeps. He recently completed starring roles in My Bloody Valentine, 3-D, and Shannon’s Rainbow. His numerous television appearances include The Rockford Files, Lou Grant, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, M*A*S*H, Homicide and Oz, as well as Pennsylvania Lynch and Lemon Sky for PBS.

 Mr. Atkins has appeared in several regional theaters across the country, including six seasons at Long Wharf and 10 summers at the Williamstown Theater Festival. On Broadway, Mr. Atkins appeared in The Changing Room and The Front Page. Off Broadway, he has performed in Whistle In The Dark and Long Day’s Journey Into Night.

Mr. Atkins replaces Edmund Lyndeck, who originated the role of Scrooge in the first CLO production of A Musical Christmas Carol in 1992 and has performed it almost annually since. Mr. Lyndeck has chosen to focus his attention on a film career that has taken off in recent years.

“Pittsburgh CLO wants to extend its warmest appreciation to Ed, who brought such passion and enthusiasm to the role for many years,” Kaplan added. “We wish him the best of luck in all his future endeavors.”

The Pittsburgh CLO production of A Musical Christmas Carol debuts at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, December 5, at the Byham Theater. Tickets start at just $26.50 for adults and $13.50 for children. They are available online at pittsburghCLO.org, by calling 412-456-6666 or at the Box Office at Theater Square. Groups of 10 or more may call 412-325-1582.

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