Goodman Theatre Chicago is celebrating 100 years and is presenting Charles Dicken’s A Christmas Carol in its 48th annual production. Goodman veteran Christopher Donahue returns in the title role as Ebenezer Scrooge for a second time after last year’s stunning debut.
True to its professed policy of inclusion and colorblind casting, the production reflects a healthy cross-section of society from the director, Malkia Stampley, a twice Jeff Award-nominated director and The Goodman’s BOLD Artistic Producer since 2021, to such cast members as veteran actor Jon Hudson Odom as the hapless Bob Cratchit, among others.
A Christmas Carol runs now through December 31.
Each year The Goodman adds a new layer of depth and humanity to this timeless tale. The sets, costumes and special effects are first rate and the characterizations by the actors are spot on. Donahue infuses his Scrooge with humanity and humor. Even as his ‘Bah, Humbugs’ percolate from deep within, one gets the feeling that somewhere beneath that gruff exterior is a heart that beats with humanity and longing.
There are some scary scenes, particularly the entrance of the Ghost of Jacob Marley, played brilliantly by Daniel Jose Molina in his fourth Carol appearance.
The flying sequences provided by ZFX, INC. continue to captivate along with the adroit acting of the Ghosts of Christmas Past (Lucky Stiff), Christmas Present (Bethany Thomas) and Christmas Future (Molina, once again)
There are much merriment, dancing and music from the onstage band, cast and chorus. Original Music composed by Andrew Hansen, provides a lively mix of World Music, traditional period jigs and plain old Boogey-Down that had the audience clapping and stamping its feet right along!
It’s hard not to have a good time at this enthralling performance. If the high prices and frustrations of the Holidays are getting you down, take a detour to Dearborn and Randolph Streets in Chicago for a soul-satisfying experience. For information, visit Goodman Theatre.org.
Dwight Casimere, Entertainment reporter at The Times Weekly, Joliet/Chicago
ent@thetimesweekly.com
