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Regional Reviews: San Francisco A Stunning Production of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol Also see Richard's reviews of Elf The Musical, The Complete History of Comedy (Abridged) and Kinky Boots and Patrick's review of The Christmas Revels ...
Mark Anderson Phillips gives the role of Ebenezer Scrooge new liveliness and texture. He is phenomenal as he brings the story to life, infusing the character with the spirit of a young man, especially in the last scenes when he reminds me of the great British actor Alastair Sim who took on the role in the J. Arthur Rank film. Phillips has created a perfect voice for the character, which adds to Scrooge's weirdness and his wit. Michael Ray Wisely is memorable as the Ghost of Christmas Present. His entrance in a puffy costume beautifully design by Michael A. Berg is spectacular—he actually "explodes" from Scrooge's bed in a storm of confetti, which drew a large ovation from the audience at the performance I attended. Wisely keeps his performance fresh and adds an extra element of fun to the production. Other marvelous performances include Michael McCarty and Jeanine Perasso as the jovial Mr. and Mrs. Fezziwig, and Michael Doppe as the Young Scrooge. Jeff Draper plays a fresh and exciting specter of the ghost of Marley, and Michael Wiles gives a faultless performance as Bob Cratchit, while Ginny Wehrmeister ably supports him as Mrs. Cratchit. Kerri Shawn, dressed in a shimmering lighted white dress, gives a lovely performance as the Ghost of Christmas Past. Scott Denison's direction is solid and he keeps the story moving at all times. Kelly James Tighe's massive set makes you feel like you are on the streets of London. Costumes by Michael A. Berg and lighting by John Earls are spectacular. Jennifer Perry has devised a wonderful dance for the Christmas party in Fezziwig's warehouse. A Christmas Carol runs through December 21st, 2014, at Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. For tickets 925-943-7469 or visit www.CenterREP.org.
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