PicksInSix Review: A Christmas Carol - Goodman Theatre
Pure, Timeless Dickens Magic and Merriment!
Guest Contributor | Scott Gryder
With over 100 different versions of this classic story available, I was ready to enjoy the popular Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol,” but I was nowhere near prepared for the magic that Goodman Theatre would bring to its 44th annual production! With the entire house packed with families and friends of all ages on Thursday night snuggled into the Albert Theatre, enjoying the soft, welcoming glow of the stage’s London street scene, it warmed the heart to see the return of this beloved holiday tradition.
After over four decades of performances, you’d expect a production to show some wear and tear, but Goodman Theatre’s “A Christmas Carol” ages like a fine gluhwein. Chicago favorite Jessica Thebus, co-adaptor/director of Goodman’s superb 2020 audio streaming version, creates directorial magic onstage. Thebus masterfully presents flawlessly flowing stage pictures, especially considering the could-be intimidatingly large ensemble, peppered with delightful surprises. The famous plot focuses mainly on Ebenezer Scrooge’s personal reflection and growth; however, the theme that rings truest reminds us to be kind to everyone, for you never know where they’re coming from, nor what they’re going through.
As for Goodman’s Scrooge, Larry Yando delivers a masterclass in performance. Returning for his 14th year, Yando incorporates delightfully shifting vocal stylings and physical energy that keeps the audience continually falling in love with the antagonist. From a graveled character voice, reminiscent of a barren tree branch scratching across a wintery windowpane, to his spontaneous celebratory gyrations, comparable to a joyful toddler learning to walk, Yando’s ability to balance moments of sinister humbug with physical comedy are remarkable. Contrastingly, Thomas J. Cox amuses and captivates with a mousy timidity and enthusiasm as the underpaid clerk Bob Cratchit. And the epic ensemble doesn’t waste a beat onstage. Whether filling a London street scene or attending a private party, each cast member brings a fully developed character, nuanced and alive to every moment. Particular standouts include Gayatri Gadhvi’s stirring and poignant Tiny Tim Cratchit and the silver-and-gold vocals of Bethany Thomas’ Ghost of Christmas Present.
The show starts unexpectedly small, using the concept of intimate fireside storytelling; however, it doesn’t take long for the stage to hustle and bustle with an ensemble that glides so meticulously into stage pictures as if choreographed. Although slower paced and delivered in a more formal language style than I’d expected of a family-centric production, Thebus’ casting admiringly celebrates gender, color, and orientation, and the audience is captivated throughout as the multitude of cast members and mammoth set pieces continually dissolve and materialize before our very eyes as we weave through the time-honored plot. The subtle, natural use of performer amplification was also greatly appreciated.
The true abracadabra comes from the combined design genius of “A Christmas Carol.” Set designer Todd Rosenthal’s use of nearly invisible multi-layering and floating sets, along with staggering control over special effects, breathtakingly recreates the realistic and idyllic scenes of a Thomas Kinkade painting. In perfect complementarity, Keith Parham’s lighting wizardry only further illuminates Rosenthal’s sets, providing secret passageways for sudden reveals and visual trickery. The charming mix use of muted and lush palettes of Heidi Sue McMath’s costume designs provided just enough visual punch without losing the traditional touch of Victorian England garb. Contrastingly delving fiercely into the realm of Scrooge’s visiting spirits, McMath assembles looks of a Lady Gaga/Liza Minnelli red carpet affair; a personified, propagating Tannenbaum; and the soul-sucking menace of a Rowling-Dementor-meets-Henson-Skeksis. And the cinematic sound design of Richard Woodbury creates palpable layers of emotional sustenance, fervidly transporting the audience from beginning to end.
After witnessing the transformation from holiday hooey to pure childlike innocence, I left the Goodman Theatre filled with Scrooge’s (or should I say Yando’s?) contagious holiday gratitude and cheer. It’s no wonder it’s been a Chicago holiday tradition now in its fifth decade, Goodman’s “A Christmas Carol” triggered the start of the holiday season in my heart!
PHOTO| Liz Lauren
Goodman Theatre
presents
Charles Dickens’
A Christmas Carol
through December 31
WEBSITE
(312) 443-3800
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