Magical. Defined as “beautiful or delightful in such a way as to seem removed from everyday life,” it’s a word that some might say is overused, yet sometimes no other word will suffice. Christmas itself is often magical—and so is Revolution Stage Company’s production of Charles Dickens Writes “A Christmas Carol.”
Adapted by Scott Palmer, the play offers a glimpse into Dickens’ creative process as he comes up with the holiday classic we all know.
The play opens with Dickens (James Owens) regaling a small crowd on the street with one of his speeches. These townsfolk soon join him in his study as the plot of A Christmas Carol begins to take shape in his mind. They assume different roles and act out the story, and also seem to represent different aspects of the playwright’s psyche. (“Let’s not get ahead of myselfs,” Dickens chides.) From time to time, they chime in with suggestions for plot lines and character names, which provide much of the play’s humor. At one point, two of the female characters take hilarious umbrage at being described by Dickens as “portly.”
The cast here is uniformly superb. Owens delivers an award-worthy performance as Dickens. Brilliant, funny and a bit sardonic, he captures Dickens’ knack for turning his powers of observation into colorful characters. His mannerisms and spot-on British accent transport us right back to London in the 1800s. (This is true of the entire cast.)
Ebeneezer Scrooge has been portrayed by so many actors over the years that finding something new in the role and making it one’s own might be quite a challenge—but somehow, Jason Mannino does it. He certainly embodies Scrooge’s penny-pinching gruffness early on, and is ever so slightly reminiscent of the George C. Scott version from the 1984 film. But it’s his vulnerability, and his epiphany after the Christmas spirits visit, that really gets us. It is an acting tour de force.
Adam Heiter is terrific as the beleaguered Bob Cratchit. He’s “everyman.” He loves his family, works hard to support them and tries to balance pleasing a cantankerous boss while holding on to what self-respect he has left. His grief over Tiny Tim’s plight is palpable. (Heiter also ably portrays Jacob Marley early in the play.)
With her flaming red hair, sharp comic timing and wonderful stage presence, Rebecca McWilliams really shines in both her roles as Mrs. Cratchit and the Ghost of Christmas Past.
Like much of the cast, Heather Joy plays multiple roles, but her big moment comes as the Ghost of Christmas Present. Resplendent in sparkling tones of rust and gold, she is serene, majestic and regal. She is adamant that Scrooge see the harsh truths of the life he has created for himself, and the misery he’s caused others. “Look, and remember!” she admonishes him. Ms. Joy nails it.
Eliza Faloona is quite a find. Adorable, feisty and possessing a lovely singing voice, she also plays multiple roles, and she’s particularly effective as Scrooge’s fiancée, Belle, who breaks off their engagement when she realizes Scrooge’s love of money will always come first.
Rounding out the cast is Samuel Neal Moffatt. His multiple roles include Mr. Fezziwig and Scrooge’s jovial young nephew, Fred. Handsome, clean-cut and likable, he’s a joy to watch onstage.
Director Laura Stearns does a fabulous job of keeping the story moving along, and of bringing the best out of her cast. This show is a mix of hilarity, pathos and high drama, and Stearns manages to keep it all very real. She also deserves credit for an imaginative set, which serves as the perfect backdrop for this story.
Congrats also go to Nathan Cox, who skillfully handles the sound and projections. The costumes (Emma Bibo) wigs and makeup (Lynda Shaeps) are top-notch; the apparition of the Ghost of Christmas Future deserves special mention.
Revolution Stage Company is a welcome addition to the Coachella Valley theater scene. Producing partners Gary Powers and James Owens are off to a strong start, with the outstanding remodeling of the space, recent successful cabaret productions and now Charles Dickens Writes “A Christmas Carol.”
When the audience starts applauding before the end of the closing song, you know you’ve got a hit on your hands. This show is magical. Do yourself a favor … go see it!
Charles Dickens Writes “A Christmas Carol” will be performed at 7 p.m., Friday; 7:30 p.m., Saturday; and 2 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, through Saturday, Dec. 23, at the Revolution Stage Company, 611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, in Palm Springs. There is no 7:30 p.m. show on Saturday, Dec. 2. Dec. 2 and 3 tickets are $20; other shows are $35, with discounts, and the running time is two hours with one 15-minute intermission. For tickets or more information, visit www.revolutionstagecompany.com.