Spring Break
Dickens' classic charms for 25th year at KC Rep
Jennifer Bhargava
Issue date: 12/5/05 Section: Culture
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Dramatic and comedic moments interlaced in the production bring the audience's emotions full circle.
However, the ghost of Jacob Marley (Larry Greer) looks like a leftover from a Halloween spook house, and his dialogue is practically non-existent over the clamoring of his chains.
Most of the humor involved the bumbling, tipsy Mr. Fezziwig (Michael Linsley Rapport) and his jolly wife (Jeanne Averill) as they celebrated Christmas with traditional English dances.
A more dismal moment is the scene where Belle (Amy Lewis) breaks the heart of a young Scrooge (Michael Andrew Smith). Lewis steals the moment with deepest sincerity and a crushing look that would break any man's heart.
Behind-the-scenes production workers earn kudos for an outstanding performance as well.
The stage beautifully represents Victorian England, with traditional Christmas decorations and painted London buildings.
Special effects, such as fog, sparkles and people appearing "out of nowhere" will delight children and adults alike.
This year's Rep production of "A Christmas Carol" should be the first item on anyone's holiday to-do list. Brilliant acting, lovely costumes and stunning visual effects help a classic tale delight audiences in a new generation.
jbhargava@unews.com
However, the ghost of Jacob Marley (Larry Greer) looks like a leftover from a Halloween spook house, and his dialogue is practically non-existent over the clamoring of his chains.
Most of the humor involved the bumbling, tipsy Mr. Fezziwig (Michael Linsley Rapport) and his jolly wife (Jeanne Averill) as they celebrated Christmas with traditional English dances.
A more dismal moment is the scene where Belle (Amy Lewis) breaks the heart of a young Scrooge (Michael Andrew Smith). Lewis steals the moment with deepest sincerity and a crushing look that would break any man's heart.
Behind-the-scenes production workers earn kudos for an outstanding performance as well.
The stage beautifully represents Victorian England, with traditional Christmas decorations and painted London buildings.
Special effects, such as fog, sparkles and people appearing "out of nowhere" will delight children and adults alike.
This year's Rep production of "A Christmas Carol" should be the first item on anyone's holiday to-do list. Brilliant acting, lovely costumes and stunning visual effects help a classic tale delight audiences in a new generation.
jbhargava@unews.com
