I consider Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol to be as much of a cherished holiday tradition as decorated trees, strings of bright lights and boughs of holly, and now through Christmas Eve, Virginia Stage Company is performing the timeless classic at the historic Wells Theatre in Downtown Norfolk.
With a dazzling new set design and costumes, music arrangements by Roy George and direction by Patrick Mullins, this riveting play meant for all ages evokes the holiday spirit, placing in the limelight the true meaning of Christmas while the acts of charity, kindness and compassion take center stage.
The cantankerous Ebenezer Scrooge, masterfully played by Clark Scott Carmichael, is a cynical London moneylender who denounces Christmas merriment. However, when Scrooge is haunted in his robed gown and nightcap by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future, he experiences firsthand the harmful consequences of his greed and ill-tempered scorn, redeeming himself while learning the value of goodwill towards each other.
First published as a novella in 1843, A Christmas Carol has never gone out of print, as its message has withstood the test of time. It proves to be just as significant in our modern era, especially during the frenzy brought on from the holiday season, while its resounding theme helps spread holiday cheer.
Prior to the opening night performance, we enjoyed champagne and splendid cupcakes that were provided for guests from Sweet Haven Baked Goods, a local bakery and program in support of H.E.R. Shelter, a nonprofit that provides leadership, advocacy and resources to survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence, stalking and human trafficking. Currently Virginia Stage Company is accepting donations of canned goods and stocking stuffers for survivors of H.E.R. Shelter at Wells Theatre as well as monetary donations online.
Virginia Stage Company will be performing A Christmas Carol at Wells Theatre in Downtown Norfolk through Christmas Eve. Visit VaStage.org to find performance times and purchase tickets.
Ryan Miller
