A 50th Anniversary triumph! Chris Beiser leads a powerhouse cast, matched by exceptional set design and lighting, in this magical, must-see rendition of 'Scrooge: The Musical.'
La Comedia's All-Star 'Scrooge' is a Christmas Miracle
In honor of their 50th Anniversary, if La Comedia were to name an All-Star team, it would closely resemble the cast of ‘Scrooge: The Musical.’ With a mix of veterans and young up and comers, it’s a well balanced roster. After seeing the cast list posted online, my interest in seeing the show rose substantially. After all, a number of my personal favorites were included. As expected, the cast did not disappoint and their greatness was matched by the set design crew, lighting team, wardrobe department and all other facets of the production to deliver a true all-star performance.
In the title role of Scrooge is not only an All-Star, but a first ballot Hall of Famer, Chris Beiser. No offense to Beiser, but the money loving curmudgeon is the perfect role for him. To Beiser’s credit though, the same can be said for any part he plays, such as the flamboyant hairdresser in Shear Madness. From the accent to his mannerisms, watching Beiser as Scrooge is like watching an artist paint a masterpiece, only is much more entertaining. The resident director/choreographer for La Comedia, it’s always a treat when steps out from behind the curtain.
It’s a Christmas Miracle, Chris Kramer is back! It’s official now that Kramer is included, this season is arguably the best in La Comedia history. Kramer being on stage is reminiscent of getting snow on Christmas, doesn’t happen much anymore, but is magical when it does. Kramer plays the Ghost of Christmas Present. I’m beginning to suspect that the reason Kramer has been M.I.A is he’s Thor in the CBS sitcom Ghosts.
You can’t spell Christmas without Chris, and the two Chris’s share a strong chemistry and several one- liners together.
I normally try to avoid ghosts, but I might reconsider if they look as angelic as Catie Cumings does as the Ghost of Christmas Past.
The third member of the trio who teaches Scrooge some valuable lessons is the Ghost of Christmas Future (Garrett Hummel). Though he doesn’t speak, his message is heard loudest of all. Hummel provides the menacing presence needed for the role.
Even more frightening though is John Dorney as Marley. Dorney fully embraces his dark side by making the character truly haunting. I thought Michael Myers from the Halloween franchise invaded the stage at first. Rather than a Christmas show it temporarily turned into a horror story. In all seriousness, Dorney with all his chains as Marley is the scariest thing I’ve seen at La Comedia. The only thing more haunting would be the announcement of another Church Basement Ladies. Sorry, Pastor Gunderson.
Did I mention it’s an all-star cast. I’ve yet to even mention the likes of Mallory Georgia Marie, Jonathan Pendergrass or Tori Kocher. Each could and/or already have had lead roles in other shows. Here they generously lend their talents to smaller, yet no less impactful parts. Among the multiple characters Marie plays is a former girlfriend of a young Scrooge. Letting someone with the beauty of Marie get away is enough to make someone a grumpy old soul.
Pendergrass stands out no matter the part he plays, and is no exception as Harry (Scrooge’s nephew) & a young Scrooge. Among the vocal highlights is ‘You-You’ performed by Pendergrass and Beiser together as a young/old Scrooge.
With a radiant charisma, Kocher always endears herself to the audience and does here as Mrs. Cratchit. Her counterpart, Ty Smith (Bob Cratchit) also stands out with an admirable performance.
While Scrooge is not a musical that you leave singing a song from, the music is enjoyable. They range in emotion, from a very touching ‘I’ll Begin Again,’ by Beiser to the fun, ‘The Minister’s Cat.’ The next party I attend, I want to play ‘The Minister’s Cat.’ Who’s coming?
Among the best and most spirited ensemble numbers I’ve seen at La Comedia was ‘Thank You Very Much,’ lead by All-Star Dylan Jackson.
The highth of an actor makes no difference, as the small in stature Tiny Tim (Nash Barton/Micah Boone Carrol) and the the statuesque Fezziwig (Steve Lakes), both stand tall. Of course, the all - star team and mists casts would not be complete without duct tape or better known as Colin Cranstoun.
Rounding out the roster/cast is Leanne Greenberg, Sierra Jones, Julianna Pyle, Rachel Tsirelis and Elaine Wilson. Speaking of La Comedia All-Star’s we must not forget from the carving station the multi-talented Mark Reuter who whether serving as an actor or meat cutter at the buffet, always delivers a grade of A.
Beyond the cast, ‘Scrooge:The Musical’ is exceptional because of the lighting. Credit to Edward Huber, Michael Lee and all the crew involved. The myriad of colors whenever a ghost appears and other effects, really raises the shows quality to the next level. A standout effect is Scrooge’s doorknocker that magically comes to life.
The set, consisting of three rotating structures, built on a platform, is also impressive. Scenic designer Gabe Davidson and crew have really worked this season to build up the show’s appearances.
As if such a tremendous show isn’t enough, there’s still more and I’m not even talking about the delicious buffet…or the cheesecake bites for dessert. One of my favorite parts of the holiday season is always the traditional singing of O Holy Night. This year the honors goes to none other than Chris Kramer, whose rendition will touch your soul.
If you have not been to La Comedia for awhile, ‘Scrooge: The Musical’ is a great opportunity to come and see the all-star performance for yourself. You will feel a reborn commitment to excellence. If a regular, don’t miss seeing greatness you are accustomed to.
Show Information: Scrooge! The Musical— now at La Comedia Dinner Theatre thru December 28.
