OAKHURST — The Golden Chain Theatre brings a Christmas classic to the mountain communities this holiday season with the magical musical experience, “A Christmas Carol,” opening the weekend following Thanksgiving and playing until Dec. 23rd.
The show is an adaptation of Charles Dickens’ well-known 1843 novella of the same name, with music by the composer of Beauty and the Beast and Ragtime, an ideal choice for anyone hoping to create a beautiful holiday tradition.
Photos by Steve Montalto, HighMountain Images
Join this talented cast of 50 members as they tell the beautiful story of redemption and the transforming power of family and friends during the holiday season. The story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his profound visitation by three ghosts on Christmas Eve night has been a veritable staple in Christmastime traditions for almost two centuries, and continues to inspire generations with messages of hope and what is most important in life especially during this time of year. — James Mierkey, Director
“What I both love about this musical, and find challenging, is that in this show Scrooge is given his full depth,” says Michael Van Buren regarding the character he plays, Ebenezer Scrooge.
Besides having its share of pathos, the show is a toe-tapper featuring complex characters, and the actors appreciate the opportunities to connect with the work.
“The character of Bob Cratchit is well written and compelling,” says Max Barclay, who plays Cratchit. “He’s an overworked family man with a very sick child. He’s just trying to do the best he can with what he has.”
George Rich, who plays the Ghost of Christmas Present, says the GCT production does an excellent job of pinpointing the precious feelings of Christmastime that everyone can treasure.
“The best part of playing the Ghost of Christmas Present is the opportunity to give as much joy and Christmas cheer as I can muster. This ghost is the one who lives in the continuous love, joy and benevolence of Christmas and it is my pleasure and honor to be given such a role!
“This show is such a beloved story, that for many, has become a significant part of their yearly Christmas traditions,” says Rich. “It allows the audience to truly be absorbed in the amazing and wondrous feelings that Christmastime can bring.”
Charlotte Olsen plays on of theater’s most beloved children, Tiny Tim.
“I like how even though Tiny Tim is disabled and his family can’t afford to take care of his medical needs, he doesn’t let that stop him or bring him down,” Olsen points out. “He is happy and loving no matter what.”
Olsen sums it up nicely, adding that the production is “awesome!”
Despite the tendency toward time-travel and its host of otherworldly beings, the play is bringing out the best in all its cast and crew.
“The most challenging aspect of playing the Ghost of Christmas Past is portraying emotion to the audience without a lot of dialog,” says Darla Dean, who’s been working with her own facial expressions to articulate meaning without speaking for the character.
“There are so many amazing aspects of this production, including set decorating and costumes, but I’m most grateful to be able to share with the audience this journey we take Mr. Scrooge on that finally opens his heart and helps him appreciate the beautiful things in life and the magic of spending Christmas together with family.”
The production is rated PG for some spooky moments, and runs from Friday, Nov. 23 through Sunday, Dec. 23. Curtains rise on Fridays and Saturdays at 7 p.m., and on Sundays the matinee performance starts at 2 p.m. Directed by James Mierkey. Tickets range in price from $12 – $17.
Music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, and book by Mike Ockrent and Lynn Ahrens.
Golden Chain Theatre’s A Christmas Carol The Musical
