Blogger: Cynthia Bragg

Absolutely nothing puts me more in the mood for the holidays than a Christmas classic.  And with all of the hustle and bustle of getting ready for the holidays, it is even more important to take a little time and do something special with your loved ones.  Shake off a little of that mall madness, and remember what it's all about.  So when I heard that Neptune Theatre was running a musical rendition of the holiday classic "A Christmas Carol", my toes curled up like a Christmas elf's and I danced a merry jig. Really...I did! It was off to Neptune, for my girl and me! 

Now let's see, how much do I tell you about this play without ruining the magic of Neptune's rendition.  It isn't, after all, as if you don't already know the famous story of Scrooge and his nightly visits from foreboding ghosts.  It isn't even as if you don't know how it all will end.  But you likely don't know yet, that Neptune's version is full of wonderful surprises. 

Starting with the music!  I'm not entirely convinced that the ghost of Dickens himself did not visit composer and lyricist Eric Hughes.   Each song is written as though Dickens has written it, careful not to stray from the language of the time.  Each song reflects the emotions of the characters, providing a deeper insight into the issues of the time, deep poverty, abandonment, joy and fulfillment despite it.

And when the ghost of Dickens came to inspire the good people of Neptune, he must have also brought along a few of his worldly belongings as well, for the set and costumes were truly inspired by the time, with a tinge of the Maritime scenery thrown in for good measure.   The stage is set in 1843, the year the book was written. Director George Pothitos had learned that Dickens had once visited Halifax and commented on the architecture.  Pothitos was inspired to include some of the famous Halifax buildings that were present during Dickens visit.  Set designer Geofrey Dinwiddie, costume designer D'Arcy Morris-Poultney, and Leigh Ann Vardy on lighting, ensured each piece reflected the time and each scene reflected the mood of its characters.

And oh the characters!  The hard-hearted Mr. Scrooge, played Jon Osbaldeston, was a truly tortured soul.   The cast was well suited to each and every roll.  The acting and singing was a treat, from the beautiful voices of the Christmas choir to the weary and fearful voices of the ghosts in chains.  I especially enjoyed when the ghost of Jacob Marley came to visit Scrooge, a chilly sight indeed.

We admit to having our own soft spot for Tiny Tim, played by Benjamin Hussey, who goes to school with my daughter.  In real life he's also quite the character!   I wonder if he'll sign an autograph...I wonder if she'd take it!  

A Christmas Carol, The Musical is a true Christmas treat.  Don't walk, skip to Neptune Theatre!  A Christmas Carol, The Musical runs until January 3!