BWW Reviews: Picaresque A CHRISTMAS CAROL at the Fox

The Fox Theatre has been home to an annual presentation of Nebraska Theatre Caravan's A Christmas Carol for the past 9 years. It's easy to see why. The current version on display is a wonderfully crafted and picaresque take on Charles Dickens' holiday tale.

The story of the miserly and miserable Ebenezer Scrooge, and his conversion to generosity due to visits from four ghosts on an eerie Christmas morning, is familiar and oft told. This adaptation is faithful, more or less, in its language and plotting.

Paul T. Kerr makes a fine and slimy Scrooge. He's properly evil early on, and prone to blunt jabs of sarcasm. His transformation over the course of the evening is made believable by Kerr's steady portrayal. Dan Chevalier gives a thoughtful performance as Bob Cratchitt, Scrooge's meagerly paid employee, who's attempting to raise five children, one of whom is the pitifully crippled Tiny Tim.

Russell Matthews as Scrooge's nephew, Fred, Jon McDonald as the jovial Fezziwig, Dana Colagiavanni as Mrs. Cratchitt, Logan Vamosi as Peter, and Ryan Laughlin as Tiny Tim, stand out in support among a very large cast.

This is an enjoyable and entertaining rendition that's suitable viewing for the entire family.

The Fox Theatre's presentation of the Nebraska Theatre Caravan's production of A Christmas Carol continues through December 8, 2013.