By D. A. Blackburn
There's something extremely satisfying about seeing a true classic presented perfectly. For more years than most of us can remember, Meadow Brook Theatre has made a holiday tradition of this idea with a consistently crisp production of Dickens' "A Christmas Carol." This year, to be sure, is no exception.
The exceptional quality of Meadow Brook's production lies in its staggering production value. Every aspect of the show has been crafted with care, from Charles Nolte's script, to the show's elegant sets, and its enormous and talented cast.
Nolte's script is a straightforward interpretation of Dickens' original text, incorporating concise but eloquent dialogue with the all heartwarming charm that "Carol" is known for. It's a good vehicle for a large cast – like MBT's – and provides great performance opportunities for a handful of gifted principals, along with bit-roles for youths and children.
The set for "Carol," designed by Peter W. Hicks, is simply mammoth. It fills Meadow Brook's stage completely, but it is also a detailed, picturesque wonder, providing a perfect backdrop for every scene. Mary T. Pettinato's costumes are an elegant and thoughtful fit for the show's Victorian setting, and the production rounds out with fantastic lighting, sound and technical designs. The complete sensory effect is superb, bringing to mind countless cliches about the "magic of the theater."
And on the performance end, this "Carol" is no slouch either. The production has a large cast, populated by very talented performers. In principal roles, Joseph Reed (Scrooge), Tobin Hissong (Cratchit), Mitchell Koory (Fred), Arthur Beer (Spirit of Present/Charity Man) and Sara Catheryn Wolf (Spirit of Past), among others, give faultless, moving performances. A sizable, and well-prepared children's cast – including Zachary Garrett as Tiny Tim – brings a special vibrancy and youthful wonder to a well-worn show.
Meadow Brook's "Carol" embodies the very best of the holiday theater experience, leaving audiences with a warm glow, and nothing to humbug about.
REVIEW:
'A Christmas Carol'
Meadow Brook Theatre, 2200 N. Squirrel Rd., Rochester. Thursday-Sunday through Dec. 21, plus Wed. Dec. 17. Tickets: $25-$40. For information: 248-377-3300 or http://www.mbtheatre.com
