By: Olivia Crocker
The theatre department is trading drama for whimsy in “A Christmas Carol.”
This one-act musical is shorter than most Pacific Lutheran University productions, clocking in at around an hour. It features Nick Sherwin as Ebenezer Scrooge, the penny-pinching miser from Charles Dicken’s classic novel.
Rather than approaching the story from the traditionally dramatic and dark fashion, director Ghigleri is lightening the mood. “In ‘A Christmas Carol,’ Scrooge is a man who isolated himself; we want to tell a story of warmth and light being brought into his life.”
This approach is for a very important reason; Ghigleri is trying to introduce a younger audience to theatre, and first impressions are everything.
“We’re focusing on reaching an elementary age group, and getting them excited about theatre. Because the show is shorter than most, we can be very specific and detailed with what we are producing.”
Ghigleri is stepping into a new role as director, though she has typically acted in the past.
“Learning to draw boundaries between the responsibilities I have versus, for example, my stage manager is a challenge….But it’s fun to decide how I want to collaborate and bring all those pieces together into one cohesive show.”
Junior David Smith, who portrays both Mr. Fezziwig and Mr. Cratchit, says the acting in this production is unique. “In ‘A Christmas Carol’ we are playing caricatures. Mr. Fezziwig for instance isn’t just jolly; he is the epitome of that trait.”
Smith noted that his other role, Mr. Cratchit, is a more rounded character. It takes an entirely different acting style when in this more realistic character.
Like Smith, a number of the 10 actors are taking on multiple roles. While there is a lead character, the ensemble plays a significant role in the show.
Smith said he’s excited to perform with such talented actors. “This show is going to be so well-rounded, because of how many tremendous people are working on it. It’s really an incredible group that is able to turn a short children’s show into a professional one, which can be enjoyable for all ages.”
The show may be designed for a young audience, but Smith says there is appeal for everyone. “It walks a space of liminality between childhood and adulthood; the
music is so well written, all ages can appreciate the tunes. And we can all relate to traits in these characters, even if they seem a bit over the top.”
Ghigleri says there’s another reason people will want to see this show. “You can come in for an hour, and get into the holiday spirit! It’s lighthearted, and it’s fun.”
Ghigleri has felt very close with the whole cast and crew through rehearsals.
“Theatre is a collaborative art. I’m in it for the people, and creating a piece of art that has a little piece of everyone in it.”
Smith had a similar sentiment. “The theatre community has been one of the best parts of my time here [at PLU]. Going to a smaller university means you can find a tight-knit group like this. My warmest memories are with this group.”
The performances will take place in the Karen Hille Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. There are showings on Friday, November 30th at 7:30pm, and Saturday, December 1st at 11:00am. Tickets are free to PLU students and anyone 18 or younger. General admission is $10. Military and senior (60+) is $5.
