REVIEW: ‘A Merry Little Christmas Carol’ is a Delightful Take on a Holiday Classic | NOW PLAYING @ MILE SQUARE THEATRE

Think back on all the times you’ve seen adaptations of Charles Dickens’ ominous holiday tale, A Christmas Carol. How many times would you say that story has made you laugh?

Yet here it is, right in the title—”A Merry Little Christmas Carol.” Mile Square Theatre’s new production features five actors who take on all the classic characters, portrayed in a lighthearted—nonetheless impactful—new adaptation by Mark Shanahan.

Mile Square Theatre presents A Merry Little Christmas Carol, adapted and directed by Mark Shanahan. Starring Bruce Warren as Scrooge and Paul Gary, Kelsey Roberts, Joi Price, and Joe Delafield, who all play multiple roles. 12/6/19 Hoboken, NJ photo by Joe Epstein/JoeEpsteinPhotography.com

This small but consummate group of professionals transports the audience directly to the chilly Victorian London of Dickens and Ebenezer Scrooge. With minimal props and rather efficient scenery (the stand up bed is a standout) the stage manages to evoke all we know about A Christmas Carol, drawing everyone into the story right from the start, with the abrupt “Marley was dead to begin with…”.

Mile Square Theatre presents A Merry Little Christmas Carol, adapted and directed by Mark Shanahan. Starring Bruce Warren as Scrooge and Paul Gary, Kelsey Roberts, Joi Price, and Joe Delafield, who all play multiple roles. 12/5/19 Hoboken, NJ photo by Joe Epstein/JoeEpsteinPhotography.com

The actors play multiple parts, each to perfection. Bruce Warren‘s commanding performance of Ebenezer ranges from comical to terrifying, with the “don’t let me die” scene giving the audience chills. The revealing party scene with the nephew is hilariously presented. Meanwhile Tiny Tim’s performance is certainly animated, to say the least.

Perfect for older children and adults, the show cleverly underscores the essence of the season without the browbeating of traditional presentations. Witty and well-paced, with just the right amount of “eeriness,” be sure to make room on your holiday calendar for Mile Square Theatre’s hauntingly delightful production of A Merry Christmas Carol.

Mile Square Theatre presents A Merry Little Christmas Carol, adapted and directed by Mark Shanahan. Starring Bruce Warren as Scrooge and Paul Gary, Kelsey Roberts, Joi Price, and Joe Delafield, who all play multiple roles. 12/6/19 Hoboken, NJ photo by Joe Epstein/JoeEpsteinPhotography.com

Shows run through December 29: Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays @ 8pm, and Saturdays and Sundays @ 3pm

Tickets available at www.milesquaretheatre.org, or by calling 201-683-7014.

Tickets are $15-40 • $18 students and seniors.

Discount Parking available at The Harlow at 1330 Willow Avenue and at Little Man Parking at 1300 Jefferson Street.

Mile Square Theatre is easily reached from Manhattan, a mere 15 minute bus ride from Port Authority.

For more information on Mile Square Theatre, please visit www.milesquaretheatre.org.

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