A Christmas Carol

If it is Christmas time then there is no better occasion than to bring to the stage Charles Dickens’ all-time favourite tale “A Christmas Carol”. This musical version is not to be confused with the other musical based on this story, namely “Scrooge”. This version, introduced by a dapper Derek Murray as Charles Dickens, found the company bringing this story beautifully to life with all the well-known Dickensian characters and ghosts associated with this festive tale. Alan Kerr made his mark as grumpy Scrooge showing his acting prowess and also coping admirably with the many songs he was required to sing. Marcus Wylie made an awesome Jacob Marley whose appearance as a ghost forewarned the coming of the three Christmas spirits. Marley’s Link By Link number with the tortured souls, played by the young cast members, was a highlight. Craig Nicoll as Young Ebenezer suited his role perfectly, as did Callum Taylor as Young Marley, when we met them at the Fezziwig Christmas Ball. The happy, jolly Fezziwigs  - Wes Lorimer and Margaret Brown – brought a joyful party to the proceedings and it was there Scrooge fell in love with Belle – a tender and lovely moment this in the show when Eilidh Robertson plaintively sang Heart Of Gold. Then there was the cheery Cratchit Family bringing joy to all despite being poor. Alan Christison (Bob) and Vicki Bowman (Mrs Cratchit) brought all their theatrical experience to their roles and, who could not fail to feel sorry for Tiny Tim -  young blond Rio Rennie tugged the heart strings of all in the audience. Rhona McCallum (Mrs Dilber) and Gwen Teppett (Mrs Filch) both owed money to Scrooge and were a superb duo. One must not forget the three Christmas Spirits – Carey Norman was a grand Christmas Past; Madelene Harper a festive-looking Christmas Present; and Wayne Brown a frightening Christmas Yet To Come. Finally, there were the “magic” effects – Stuart Whyte created Dickens walking through the streets of a snowy London; Scrooge and ghosts flying over the rooftops; and the giant appearance of Marley’s face on the door. Yes, it was all there and, as everybody exclaimed in the Finale – Merry Christmas To You All!

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