As Scrooge tries to settle in for the night, having shaken down his debtors for what he could, the stage is bathed in an otherworldly glow, and the haunting chimes of a distant clock echo through the theater. The air crackles with tension as the floorboards creak and groan, revealing a hidden trap door. From the depths of the stage, a ghostly figure begins to rise, shrouded in mist and illuminated by a spectral light.
Marley’s Ghost, with chains clanking and eyes glowing with an unearthly fire, hovers above the stage, suspended by invisible wires. The clever use of lighting and special effects creates an illusion so convincing that we were transported into the very heart of Dickens’ timeless tale. The ghost’s mournful wails and the chilling atmosphere set the tone for an unforgetta ble evening, as Hartford Stage once again breathes new life into “A Christmas Carol.”
My wife and I always find that experiencing productions like this is a great way to make Christmas feel like Christmas, and Hartford Stage’s production of “A Christmas Carol” did so perfectly.
Every year, Hartford Stage transforms the timeless tale of “A Christmas Carol” into a mesmerizing theatrical experience. The familiar story of Ebenezer Scrooge’s redemption is brought to life with fresh energy and creativity, thanks to the ever-changing cast, set design, effects, and costuming. Each performance is a unique blend of tradition and innovation, ensuring that even the most seasoned theatergoers find something new to marvel at.
The magic begins the moment we step into the theater. The lobby is adorned with festive decorations, and the air is filled with the soft strains of holiday music. As we take our seats, the anticipation builds, and soon, the stage is alive with the sights and sounds of Victorian London, immersing us in the world of Charles Dickens. From the oppressive atmosphere of Scrooge’s counting house to the chilling appearance of Marley’s Ghost to the heartwarming transformation of Scrooge, every scene is crafted with care and precision. The use of lights, trap doors, and wires to lift characters above the stage adds an element of wonder and surprise, making the supernatural elements of the story truly come alive. The talented cast delivers powerful performances, breathing new life into familiar characters and making each moment memorable.
Michael Wilson’s adaptation and direction of “A Christmas Carol” have become a beloved holiday tradition at Hartford Stage. Notable examples from a recent production include Allen Gilmore’s compelling portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge and Rebecka Jones’ ethereal performance as the Spirit of Christmas Past. Gilmore,
an accomplished actor with a diverse background, has graced stages at the Goodman Theatre, Congo Square Theatre Company, and Court Theatre, among others. His extensive experience and accolades, including being a 2015 Lunt-Fontanne Fellow, bring depth and authenticity to his portrayal of Scrooge. Meanwhile, Jones, known for her versatility and emotional depth, has captivated audiences with her performances in regional theater and national tours. Her portrayal of the Spirit of Christmas Past at Hartford Stage is particularly memorable, adding a layer of magic and hope to the production. Together, their performances elevate the entire experience, making it a standout production.
We found that Wilson’s adaptation wraps the minor characters in Scrooge’s life a little tighter in the storyline than most other versions, making it feel more solid and complete, but he is true to the spirit of the story of Scrooge’s redemption. This nuanced approach allows us to see how each character, no matter how small their role, contributes to Scrooge’s transformation.
As a long-time fan of the story (I’ve even written my own version, a one-man play), there’s a detail I thought had never been done right – the clocks, but the Hartford Stage production incorporated it perfectly, giving the clocks the significance they deserve. In fact, one of the most striking elements of this production is the prominence of clocks. While many adaptations of “A Christmas Carol” barely mention them, Wilson’s version makes them a central motif.
In Scrooge’s life, the reliable, predictable ticking of the clocks is a bedrock of his existence. During that fateful Christmas night, that reliability is thrown out and Scrooge loses his bedrock. The ticking of clocks also serves as a constant reminder of the passage of time and the urgency of Scrooge’s journey.
The music and sound design incorporate the chimes and ticks in a way that heightens the tension and underscores the supernatural elements of the story. The visual representation of clocks, whether through projections or physical props, adds a layer of symbolism that enriches the narrative.
The cast’s performances are another highlight, with each actor bringing depth and authenticity to their roles. Allen Gilmore’s portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge is both powerful and nuanced, capturing the character’s initial coldness and eventual warmth. Rebecka Jones, as the Spirit of Christmas Past, delivers an ethereal performance that is both haunting and hopeful. The ensemble cast, including notable performances by Erik Bloomquist as Fred and Vanessa R. Butler as Belle, ensures that every scene is engaging and emotionally resonant. The production’s attention to detail is evident in every aspect, from the intricate set designs to the carefully crafted costumes. The scenic design by Tony Straiges and the original music and sound design by John Gromada further enhance the immersive experience, while the flying effects by ZFX, Inc. add a touch of magic to the production.
Hartford Stage’s production of “A Christmas Carol” is a great example of the power of theater to bring classic stories to life in new and exciting ways. The combination of innovative staging, compelling performances, and a deep respect for the source material makes this annual tradition a must-see for audiences of all ages. Located at 50 Church Street in Hartford, Connecticut, Hartford Stage is known for its innovative revivals of classics and provocative new plays and musicals. The theater offers a distinguished education program that reaches more than 20,000 students annually and includes accessible seating, assistive listening devices, and large print programs to ensure a welcoming experience for all patrons.
“A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christmas” runs through December 29, “Two Trains Running” from January 23 to February 16, “Laughs in Spanish” from March 6 to 30, “Romeo & Juliet” from April 17 to May 18, and “Hurricane Diane” from June 5 to 29. Parking is convenient with a garage located next door to the theater. Before the show, visitors can explore the nearby Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, enjoy a meal at one of the many excellent restaurants in downtown Hartford, or take a stroll through Bushnell Park.
All photos courtesy of the Hartford Stage |
Hartford Stage’s production of the story of Scrooge’s redemption is more than just a play; it’s an experience that captures the magic and spirit of the holiday season. With its innovative staging, talented cast, and deep respect for Dickens’ classic tale, this annual tradition is a must-see for anyone looking to be transported into the heart of Victorian London and relive the heartwarming story of redemption.
Don’t miss your chance to witness this enchanting production—get your tickets today and make “A Christmas Carol” at Hartford Stage a part of your holiday tradition.
For more information
- hartfordstage.org
Paul not only writes many of the articles in the pages of this magazine, he is also the publisher and editor of all of the magazines in the Amygis Publishing’s family of travel magazines. He loves exploring, traveling the back roads, experiencing the world, and finding what is unique and memorable about the places he visits.
And he loves writing – poetry, short stories, essays, non-fiction, news, and. of course, travel writing.
For over 20 years, he has shared his explorations with readers in a wide variety of outlets, from groundbreaking forays into the first stirrings of the dot-com boom to travel guides, local newspapers, and television, including Runner’s World, Travel Lady, Providence Journal, and Northstar Travel Media. He currently publishes and writes for Amygis Publishing’s magazines Jaunting, Northeast Traveler, and Rhode Island Roads.