Joseph Ziegler (photo credit: Cylla von Tiedemann)
Bah, Humbug!
by Cassie Muise
Ebenezer Scrooge is a miserly old man, visited by three Christmas Ghosts who try to help him see the error of his ways before it is too late. A Christmas Carol is as thought-provoking, touching, and relevant today as it was when it was first written.
Ebenezer Scrooge is a miserly old man, visited by three Christmas Ghosts who try to help him see the error of his ways before it is too late. A Christmas Carol is as thought-provoking, touching, and relevant today as it was when it was first written.
Soulpepper rarely disappoints, and this is no exception. A Christmas Carol is a beautiful production from start to finish. It is just eerie and other worldly enough to honour the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future, without being too scary. The few effects are strategic and effective, if simple. I particularly enjoyed the dance component which allowed for interesting scene changes. It balances in a seamless way the comedy, joy, and love of Christmastime with the thought-provoking consequences of a life consumed by greed and selfishness.
While the cast is strong, I flat-out loved Joseph Ziegler’s Ebenezer, who is played with humour, depth, and appropriate crankiness to start. Oliver Dennis and Deborah Drakeford are perfect as Mr. and Mrs. Cratchit, tender but tough. You won’t want to miss the children in this, who are all fantastic – with great accents! – and lovable.
Occasionally, it was a little hard to hear. Overall, the use of the stage (which was in the round), accommodated sightlines well.
Bring your family, or a friend. It is truly the best way to kick off the holiday season. I left with a smile on my face, and a grateful heart.
God bless us, everyone!
