The timeless tale of redemption and transformation returns to the stage, yet this year’s rendition of A Christmas Carol by Open House Theatre brings a fresh, inventive twist that breathes new life into the classic story. While the beloved narrative of Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey from miserliness to generosity remains at its heart, the production cleverly frames the story within a Hollywood movie set, directed by the formidable Mr. Scroggs—a character who mirrors Scrooge himself. This dual narrative not only deepens the exploration of greed and change but also invites the audience to witness two intertwined journeys of redemption unfolding simultaneously.
This year’s performance introduces a new cast, each bringing their own energy and interpretation to these iconic roles. The creative team has woven a meta-theatrical layer into the production, where Mr. Scroggs, the ruthless and despotic movie director, undergoes a transformation akin to Scrooge’s, making the story within the story a powerful mirror of the director’s own awakening. This inventive framing device adds complexity and humor, highlighting the timeless relevance of Dickens’ message while engaging the audience with a contemporary theatrical flair.
As a photographer fortunate enough to attend the dress rehearsal once again, I was struck by the vibrant energy and meticulous craftsmanship that fills the stage. The set design cleverly balances the glamour and chaos of a Hollywood production with the haunting, intimate atmosphere of Dickens’ Victorian London. The costumes, lighting, and sound all work harmoniously to support the dual narrative, enriching the audience’s experience and drawing them deeper into both worlds.
From the gruff yet vulnerable Scrooge to the warm-hearted mother and charming nephew, each actor brings depth and nuance to their multiple roles with genuine heart. The ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come remain evocative guides, illuminating the path to change not only for Scrooge but also for the director caught in his own web of ambition and greed. Co-director Pete Steele, who is also a puppet maker, has integrated a young Scrooge puppet into the story, a nice addition to the creative staging.
This year’s A Christmas Carol is a testament to Open House Theatre’s ongoing commitment to creativity and innovation in storytelling. By framing the classic tale within the world of filmmaking, the production resonates with contemporary audiences, reminding us that the journey towards empathy and generosity is as relevant today as it was in Dickens’ time.
This holiday season, Open House Theatre’s A Christmas Carol invites you to experience a story within a story—where the magic of Christmas and the power of transformation play out on and off the stage, reminding us all that it’s never too late to change.
The production features a wonderful cast including Randall Galera, Daniel Arora, James Irons, Bianca Tornea, Nicola Ségur-Cabanac, and Louise Marie Prack. The creative team includes Maria Krebs on costumes, Marc Rothschild on set design, and the directing duo Helena Steele and Peter Steele. Technical and stage management is expertly handled by Alice Gonzalez-Martin. Together, they have crafted a performance that is both a celebration of tradition and a bold reimagining, inviting all who watch to reflect on their own capacity for change.
Directed by Helena Steele and Pete Steele
Cast and other crew members, Tickets
The play runs one more week, until December 23, 2024.
Where:
Theater Spielraum
Kaiserstraße 46
1070 Wien
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