A Christmas Carol - A live Radio Play

It’s at this time of year that the Dickensian classic, A Christmas Carol, comes out in force at theatres across my District. The tale has been told in many, many ways over the years, but this production by RaTs is a new way to present it, and I must say I liked it very much.

I'm sure everyone reading this review is familiar with A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. I'm personally a fan of the story in general and as, I said, I've seen several adaptations of it. This one by RaTs that I saw last night was certainly one of the most, interesting adaptations I've seen in years. 

And I have to say, I liked the set it was made to look like a radio studio, and I thought it was jolly good. I also really liked the sound effects man (Mr Foley) Matt Micallef who made the sound effects match the actors' actions. Brilliant job Matt. Super props by Stage Manager Hugh Bailey once again 

I thought the actors were all exceptional, all reading the lines from the script and playing the parts, and even though it's a radio play, I thought they also did well in physically acting many parts each. Although one is reading the script one must be familiar with it and they were, not easy I know, I have been there.

I particularly thought Richie Bassett gave a great performance playing Scrooge. Richie’s facial nuances were perfect for Scrooge. Luke Bailey as Jake, also a splendid performance covering so many parts, also narrating from the start. Alan Godman gave us many parts as well, and yes Alan had to get a song in!! Perfect! Principal ladies of the cast Alice Tilley and Linda Brown matched the men in their characterizations of Sally and Lana - good jobs ladies. The principal cast were backed up by a great Ensemble that gave us song and were in good voice: well done to Larry Davis (Musical Director), Katherine Halsall, Joanna Godman, Pauline Holmes, Hugh Bailey, Kevin Long and Amanda Miller.

Kerry Bailey as Director gave us a class act in direction of her love of Christmas, in this play. It was directed superbly by Kerry. Some would say get five actors put mics in front of them and away we go. But no Kerry’s direction was foremost moving the cast around and only having them in front when need be. Great direction Kerry.

Overall, if you're a fan of the A Christmas Carol, I would recommend this radio play adaptation. If you can get in, and RaTs keep up the good work in community theatre in the Medway area. Thank you for inviting my guest and me to witness this adaption of ‘A Christmas Carol - A Live Radio Play’ 

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