Looking for the perfect Christmas Gift? How about taking the family to see Goodman Theatre’s 46th annual production of A Christmas Carol on stage now through Dec. 31. This year’s production has everything, from returning traditions, such as Larry Yando’s 16th year as portraying Ebenezer Scrooge, to dazzling new sets and special effects, and debut performances from Christian Lucas in his first year as Tiny Tim, and a first-ever performance by a deaf actor, Robert Schleifer in a marquee role as Fezziwig, signing all his lines in ASL while another performer translates for the audience.  This is a triumph of Goodman’s groundbreaking policy of inclusive casting.

A spirited-on stage musical ensemble, lively dance sequences and spectacular set design give this year’s production a refreshing vitality. Fezziwig’s grand Christmas party alone will almost have you dancing in the aisles!

Victorian England with its flickering gas lamps and frosted glass storefronts and odd assortment of period costumed characters creates a theatre-scape dripping with authenticity.  ‘Carol’ captivates from the opening scenes and carries the audience along for a breathtaking ride through Scrooge’s progress from Bah-Humbug curmudgeon to enlightened humanitarian.

Dickens’ classic tale is lovingly brought to life by a superb cast, including Thomas J. Cox as the much put upon Cratchit. Kareem Bandealy gets things off to an appropriately grim start with his portrayal as Scrooge’s deceased partner Jacob Marley. Strong performances from the women in Scrooge’s life, an endearing Amira Danan a young Scrooge’s fiancé Belle and Dee Dee Batteast as his niece Frida provide the emotional bookends to Scrooge’s miraculous transformation.

 Inspired special effects with flights through space and time make this a memorable experience that the entire family will enjoy. Now thru New Year’s Eve. Visit goodmantheatre.org.

Goodman Theatre also presents a series of special performances that reflect its inclusive policies including:

ASL-Interpreted Performance: Friday, December 15 at 7:30pm – Professional ASL interpreter signs the action/text as played.

Open-Captioned Performance: Sunday, December 17 at 2pm – An LED sign presents dialogue in sync with the performance.

Spanish-Subtitled Performance: Sunday, December 17 at 7pm – An LED sign presents Spanish-translated dialogue in sync with the performance.

Sensory-Friendly Performance: Saturday, December 30 at 2pm – Sensory-friendly/relaxed performances are designed to create a performing arts experience that is intended for patrons who have autism or other social, cognitive and physical challenges that create sensory sensitivities and their families.

Visit Goodman theatre.org/Access for more information about Goodman Theatre’s accessibility efforts.