Contrasting nicely with Scrooge were the naively appealing performances of Matthew Alvin Brown as his nephew, and Tom Huston Orr as Bob Cratchit, both of whom insist on toasting him despite his bad behavior.
Objecting to this in a pithy anti-Scrooge speech was Susan Riley as Mrs. Cratchit, who sees him as one of the chief reasons for their meager circumstances and Tiny Tim's precarious hold on life.
Adding to the impact of these performances were special effects that included lighting, smoke and what looked like snow flakes falling, plus carolers and others coming up the aisles in superb period costumes.
Contributing further to the festive mood of the production, which sponsors hope becomes a “holiday tradition,” are alternating “holly” and “ivy” casts of children, just discovering the magic of Charles Dickens.
“Lyric's A Christmas Carol” is recommended and well worth attending, for the first time, or again, during its run through Dec. 29.
— John Brandenburg
Next Story
