Since its publication as a novella in 1843, Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol has been a festive staple the world over. Following its critical acclaim in 2022 & 2023, this Old Vic production has returned to the Comedy Theatre to bring Melbourne audiences much warmth and joy this season.
Conceived and directed by Matthew Warchus (Matilda the Musical) and adapted for the stage by Jack Thorne (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child), A Christmas Carol provides a stark reminder of Dickens’ themes of social responsibility and poverty, whilst bringing with it festive warmth and celebration.
This dark Victorian tale about Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserable old man who is haunted by three spirits on Christmas Eve, in a hope that these visits will convince him to change his cold-hearted ways and embrace the Yuletide season and the generosity of giving.
The festive mood of this work is evident from the start. As the audience take their seats, a musical ensemble plays traditional carols from the stage, while others, decked in black Victorian capes and hats, hand out mince pies and mandarins.
Sitting beautifully within the confines of the Comedy Theatre, Rob Howells’ design is simple and stark, allowing Warchus’ moving storytelling to always be front and centre. Hundreds of suspended lanterns grace the stage and auditorium, providing a magical affect. The pulsating lanterns, coupled with the eerie shadows & colour palettes of Hugh Vanstone’s atmospheric lighting compliments this design.
One of Australia’s most respected actors across film, television and theatre, multi-award-winning actor, Erik Thomson, joins the Australian Company as Ebenezer Scrooge. Well known for his role in the top rating TV drama Packed to the Rafters, Thomson is no stranger to the stage, having been recently seen in David Williamson’s The Puzzle with State Theatre Company South Australia.
Overseen with thoughtful direction by Australian associate director David Spencer, Thomson delivers a beautifully nuanced performance, shifting with ease from a cantankerous old man in act one to his epiphany in act two, unleashing his generous spirit amongst the ensuing mayhem.
Thomson is joined by an outstanding cast of new and returning performers including Tim Wright as Bob Cratchit, Alison Whyte and Samantha Morley as the Christmas Spirits (past and present respectively), Sarah Morrison as Belle, Aisha Aidara as Little Fan, and Grant Piro as Fezziwig.
They are joined by Anthony Cogin in the duel roles of as Marley and Scrooge’s father, Kaori Maeda-Judge as Jess, Kaya Byrne as Fred, Benjamin Colley as George (and accordion & tin whistle) and Stephanie Lambourn as Mrs Cratchit (and mandolin). Rounding out the cast is Felix Star as Young Ebenezer (and cello) and Cameron Taylor as Nicholas, with Jack Van Staveren and Jasmine Vaughns as swings.
A special mention should be made to Mira Feldman, who returns to the role of Tiny Tim after making their debut last year. Wynton Inman, Libby Segal and Noah Sherburn alternate in the role throughout the season.
Performing Christopher Nightingale’s award-winning score with a complimentary mix of traditional carols, musical director Vicky Jacobs and her cohort of musicians (Natasha Fearnside, Lauren Jennings and Lisa Reynolds) add a familiar layer to the production. Their stellar performances, especially when joined by the cast on hand bells, provide a number of memorable moments.
Whether it is your first or third viewing, there is so much to love about this joyous production and a wonderful way to start your celebrations this festive season. And as you leave the theatre, don’t forget to make a donation to Second Bite (performance partner), to help those in need.
A Christmas Carol
Comedy Theatre, 240 Exhibition Street, Melbourne
Performance: Friday 29 November 2024
Season continues to 29 December 2024
Bookings: www.ticketek.com.au
For more information, visit: www.christmascarolaustralia.com.au for details.
Images: Erik Thomson as Ebenezer Scrooge and Cast in A Christmas Carol – photo by Eugene Hyland | Erik Thomson as Ebenezer Scrooge, Felix Star as Young Ebenezer, Kaori Maeda-Judge as Jess, and Alison Whyte as the Ghost of Christmas Past in A Christmas Carol – photo by Eugene Hyland
Review: Rohan Shearn