Front and center in Adagio Players’ enchanted look into the heart of the beloved holiday classic “A Christmas Carol” is Charles Dickens’ absolutely gorgeous prose. Props, sets, costumes and makeup are minimal. The emphasis is on diction and body language.
The result of Christopher Schario’s stage adaptation is an experience remarkably faithful to the story’s timeless qualities.
Everyone knows Scrooge, the sourpuss terrified into the spirit of Christmas. It is a psychological story, ultimately up close, personal and in the head of a gloomy Gus.
Too many productions rely on special effects for credibility. Here, the Adagio Players rely on actors performing the original narrative. Their interpretations figure in, of course. But audiences are also encouraged to use their imaginations, internalize the experience and make it their own.
Kudos galore to Lisa Goshorn’s directing. Like the chapters in the novel, the scenes on stage build to a dramatic finish, in a smooth, seamless, natural, uninterrupted way.
Dickens’ descriptions border on, and often cross into, sheer eloquence. Fewer rushed line deliveries and a little more attention to enunciation here and there would allow for more savoring.
But, overall, supported by a cast fully committed to Dickens’ sincerity, lead actor Asa Sholdez’s Scrooge scared me into getting my Christmas ducks in a row.
This is a literate approach to solid values. Old-fashioned, yes; cutting edge, yes. Here, the Adagio Players offer the timelessness of a classic.
Reactions? Comments? Email Dale Burrows at grayghost7@comcast.net or entertainment@weeklyherald.com.
‘A Christmas Carol’
WHEN: Performances run through Dec. 18
WHERE: Historic Everett Theatre, 2911 Colby Ave., Everett
TICKETS: $16.50 for adults, $13.50 for students, seniors and military; available at the box office, 425-258-6766 or www.etix.com
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