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A Christmas classic at the Belfry

Locals shine in timeless Christmas tale
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By Sara Wilson

From November 28 to December 17, the Belfry Theatre presents its production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, adapted and directed by Belfry Artistic Director Michael Shamata. Veteran actor Tom McBeath stars again as literature’s most enduring character, Ebenezer Scrooge.

Returning with Tom are Gerry Mackay as Jacob Marley, Brian Linds as Mr. Fezziwig, Amanda Lisman as Belle, Celine Stubel as Mrs. Cratchit, Jan Wood as Mrs. Fezziwig, and John Han and Jessica Hickman as Spirits. Joining the cast for the first time are Evan Frayne as Bob Cratchit and Conor Wylie as Fred.

“It is simply the most powerful story that I know – for any time of the year, and it is a beautiful way to celebrate the true meaning of the holiday season. It makes people happy and reminds us that it’s not too late to become a better person; to think about others and to be grateful for the love in our lives. I have had a profound relationship with this piece for over a quarter of a century, and could happily spend as much time again in its embrace,” said Director Michael Shamata.

Written in 1843 in response to the social ills of Victorian England, A Christmas Carol profoundly changed western culture, reinvigorating the notion of Christmas and adding the now fundamental idea of charity at this time of year. Over the course of one evening “tight-fisted old sinner” Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by the Spirits of Christmases Past, Present and Future, who soften his heart and make him truly see the world around him. A Christmas Carol runs from Nov. 28 to Dec. 17, tickets start at $31.50.