By Amber Rubio
With over 135 different productions of Charles Dickens’ classic A Christmas Carol, it is always refreshing to find a new style and that is no different with this modern-day adaptation written by Jamie Young with original music written by Taylor Williams and playing at Brigham’s Playhouse in southern Utah. A Christmas Carol is about Ebenezer Scrooge, a crotchety old man that refuses to see the good in anything but money. This novella has become a Christmas tradition as the story so clearly shows the strength in the joy of giving that is demonstrated during the holiday season. A Christmas Carol was brought to stage quickly after its initial publication with its first stage showing in 1844. Brigham Playhouse’s production switches things up a bit and this A Christmas Carol is in the 1980s and the lead miser is Everett B Blithe, not E. Scrooge.
Scott Leonard (Everett “Rett” B Blithe) has a remarkable way of transforming throughout the show. The hardness in body language and words as he is bitter and angry gradually shift as he travels through Christmases past, present, and future with John Dearing (Marley) his deceased business partner. Dearing has such a clear strong voice as he opens with a new song “Bound”. Dudley Gardner (Rett’s Father), Jackie Thomassen (Rett’s Mother) along with BrynLee Lott (Fanny) share a touching scene with Leonard as Fanny and Rett happily play as children and open up the start of what changes Leonard forever. Brian Stocks (Fezz) the lovely pawnshop owner and his daughter Rebekah Hackket (Belle) brought Rett into their family as he works there in the shop. This is the first time since his childhood that he shares in Christmas joy with singing, giving, and dancing that brings a smile to the audience’s faces.
The story would not be the same without the Cratchit family. Lori Olsen (Bobby Cratchit), Lacey Butler (Martha Cratchit), Spencer Wilde (Peter Cratchit), Ashlynne Steele (Belinda Cratchit) and Mack Lawrence (Tim Cratchit). “Christmas in Our Hearts” will have the grouchiest of grinches hearts swell too big for their chest. The talented singing of this group is such a joy to listen to them share their love and generosity. Olsen does an amazing job as the head of the family, leading the audience through all of the emotions: anger, frustration, sadness, and most of all love, kindness, and understanding. The family has you wiping away tears as they share with you the burdens of life, then tears again as you laugh with them through songs like “Mean Mister Blithe” as they talk about their horrible day with a smile on their face.
There is a large ensemble cast that contributes to the unfolding of events as you are let into what made a once happy and playful young boy into a mean and heartless martyr.
The show is directed and produced by Jamie Young. You can see the years of experience he has on the stage in the what appears to be an effortless and unique way this story transitions from the 1800’s to current day issues and problems while maintain the integrity of what we have come to expect with the well-known tale of A Christmas Carol. Music Director Taylor Williams brings a variety of music types to the stage as well as interesting stories told within the lyrics. Williams also served as Sound Designer. Ryan Sant is the Lighting Designer and helps draw your eye to the various locations that the scenes are unfolding in the theater. Sadie Best has a large undertaking as Costume Designer to handle a cast of this size (more than 50 people!). The way they showcase the ghosts are simple, effective, and interesting. I loved the unique options that are done in this show. Tonya Christensen is the Set Designer and made great selections as there is a large number of changes in this show.
If you have not had the chance to experience a show at Brigham’s Playhouse, it is a treat for sure. This smaller theater is charming and the shows that are produced here are heartfelt and always have a feeling of family. And their treats and raffle are awesome! The charm of the interior is carried on to the stage with actors and stage crew that love the profession and it shows. A perfect way to experience A Christmas Carol this season.
Brigham’s Playhouse presents Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, By Jamie Young and Taylor Williams.
Brigham’s Playhouse, 25 N 300 W Suite C1, Washington, UT 84780
November 29- December 29: Wednesday-Saturday, 7:00 PM, matinees Saturday, 2:00 PM
Tickets: $17-$23 call for group rates
Brighams Playhouse Facebook Page
A Christmas Carol Facebook Event
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