The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge
By Mark Brown
Produced by The Core Theatre in Richardson, TX
Reviewed by Eddy Herring
And just like that, another Holiday season is upon us. The leaves are turning, the air is crisp, and it feels like midnight at 6pm. I really love this time of the year. I can’t remember a Holiday Season without listening to classic Christmas music while putting up the tree. Or, watching a favorite Christmas movie while curled up on the couch with a snuggly blanket and the fireplace crackling. If you are a fan of Holiday stories, you are in for a treat, as The Core Theatre presents The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge.
This sequel to A Christmas Carol is a joy to watch. I won’t give away the plot here in case you haven’t seen it, but it is a trial, so the setting is a courtroom. Director James Prince has assembled a cast of characters that fill the stage and bring this show to life. Macie Thorson (Costumer) has adorned each of these delightful characters in exquisite costumes. Lights and sound (and smoke), by Angel Fernando, appropriately set the tone for our story to unfold.
The story opens pre-trial in the courtroom with Bailiff Connelly (Corinthia Townsend) and Judge Pearson (Juli Stalter) preparing for the trial. Townsend is so charming throughout the play as she flutters around the stage, interjecting at all the right moments. Stalter rules the bench with a stern tone and a sneer that is comical to watch, which clearly lets us know that Judge Pearson is tough and just wants to get this trial over with. She
David Keller (Ebenezer Scrooge) convincingly defends himself, and gives just enough Scrooge for us to still like him. David Colville (Solomon Rothschild) formidably drives the action along. His delivery is spot-on, with his cunning quips and wordplay. Arianna Cinello skillfully plays Mrs. Cratchett, Miss Wainwright, and Harriet Dilber. Until I read the program, I had no idea she was portraying all three parts. Tom Mckee also doubles as Bob Cratchett and Fred Fitzpatrick, as does Miracle Lewis as Fan and Belle. Both make their transformations seamlessly onstage. The Ghosts of Christmas Past and Future are played by Emma Kroft and Kameron Emanuel, respectively. I have to say that Kroft was so charming in her role, and I had no idea she is only in the 5th grade. Very well done, young lady. And Greg Dinsmore plays the Interpreter for Emanuel’s Ghost. You will have to see the show to understand.
The standout for me in this production was Gordon Fox who plays the ghostly Jacob Marley. From his ominous and foggy entrances, to his chain-adorned costume, Fox is the perfect Marley. He has impeccable comedic timing and his wide-eyed expressions are priceless.
If you are a fan of Holiday shows, this is a must see! It is light-hearted, fun and very entertaining. And The Core is such a cozy and comfortable venue. The show runs through December 18, so don’t miss it. Recommended for all ages. Tickets available at https://thecoretheatre.org/
Audience Rating: PG (smoke, ghostly images)
Accessible Seating: Yes
Sensory-Friendly Showing: No
Hearing Devices: No
Production Sound Level: Comfortable
Go See the Show!
Eddy Herring
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