A Christmas Carol

I will honour Christmas in my heart and try to keep it all the year. I will live in the Past, the Present, and the Future. The Spirits of all Three shall strive within me. I will not shut out the lessons that they teach! – Ebenezer Scrooge, A Christmas Carol

The opening night of GWB Entertainment’s Australian production of The Old Vic’s multi-award-winning A Christmas Carol at Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre was a heartwarming and captivating experience that flawlessly encapsulated the essence of Charles Dickens’s timeless tale. 

In a world currently shadowed by conflicts in Europe and the Middle East, and the mounting cost of living crisis, this exceptional production emerges as a sanctuary, transporting audiences to a Dickensian winter realm, rekindling faith in humanity’s warmth and compassion. Conceived and directed by the brilliant Matthew Warchus, and adapted by Jack Thorne, this rendition of the classic tale masterfully conveys a mix of poignant and celebratory messages at a time when the world truly needs them. Delivering a heartwarming and visually stunning spectacle, beautifully encapsulating the essence of the holiday spirit – it’s simply a must-see for all!

Upon entering the theatre, the atmosphere immediately radiates holiday cheer. Victorian-clad figures greet attendees, offering mince pies (yum) and mandarins (random, but also yum) as suspended lanterns cast a captivating glow across the stage and auditorium, blending seamlessly with Hugh Vanstone’s atmospheric lighting. As we settle into our seats, the actors take the stage, engaging the audience with lively interactions. They skillfully handle handbells, echoing joyous Christmas melodies, and perform energetic dances, engaging the audience before the first lines are even spoken. Their heartfelt greetings weave an irresistible enchantment that envelops everyone in the theatre, leaving no chance to escape its charm, making it utterly impossible not to be drawn into the magic of this show.

The stage is a cleverly designed cross-configuration that creates an intimate bond between the audience and the performers, who skillfully engage from various angles. The wooden-slatted set is minimalistic, but don’t let this fool you – just wait for the ‘doors’ which seemingly appear and disappear throughout the show. (Very cursed child-esque). 

Owen Teale brings his mastery to the role of Ebenezer Scrooge, reprising his remarkable performance from The Old Vic’s London production. His rendition on stage was nothing short of stellar, navigating Scrooge’s transformation from a bitter, forlorn soul to a beacon of boundless generosity after his epiphany. Teale’s nuanced portrayal stood out as one of the many highlights of the evening, showcasing his exceptional talent and depth. Debra Lawrance (known for her performances in Home & Away and Please Like Me) along with Samantha Morley (Offspring) captivate the audience as the ethereal Christmas Spirits. Their exceptional talent held the audience spellbound; with every word they uttered leaving the crowd mesmerised. The ensemble cast, consisting of a cadre of adept actors, also collectively elevated the production to new heights. One other notable mention must go to Mira Feldman, whose inaugural theatrical performance as Tiny Tim on the opening night left a lasting impression, marking a truly impressive debut on the stage.

The musical score of ‘A Christmas Carol’, composed by Christopher Nightingale and performed by musical director Peter Rutherford added depth and emotion to the narrative. The seamless blend of traditional carols with the cast’s handbells created indelible moments throughout the evening, ‘Oh Holy Night’ as well as ‘Silent Night’ was particularly breathtaking and truly moving – why didn’t anyone warn me to take tissues?!

The enduring narrative of A Christmas Carol remains a cultural staple, bearing a timeless message of redemption and love against the Christmas backdrop. Despite its uplifting core, the tale delves into sombre, emotional depths, fostering intense engagement with its unfolding plot.

As if this show could get any better, it goes beyond the stage. A Christmas Carol has teamed up with FareShare, Australia’s largest charity kitchen. FareShare unites chefs and volunteers, who jointly prepare and distribute nutritious meals for individuals facing hardship. After the performance, ushers can be seen collecting donations, which will be used to bring some much-needed Christmas cheer for those in need.

A Christmas Carol
On stage until Sunday 7 January 2024
christmascarolaustralia.com.au