Neptune Theatre’s production of A Christmas Carol is a bit different from the usual adaptation of the holiday classic – it’s a musical.
Eric Hughes was commissioned to write lyrics and a score for the production. The script was adapted from the original novel, which is conveniently divided into five staves – a musical term which designates a consistent theme or mood rather than chapter.
English actor Jon Osbaldeston, who is playing Ebenezer Scrooge, said yesterday following a media call for the play the production is unique without tarnishing Dickens’ original piece.
“It stays very true to Dickens original work, it’s a wonderful script and a wonderful scroll, so it’s almost easy to be in because it sort of plays itself,” said Osbaldeston, equipped with nightcap and stage makeup.
The classic storyline tells the tale of Scrooge and his journey through Christmases past, present and future. Scrooge progresses from a money-hungry bah-humbug to warm-hearted, kind man, thanks to three ghosts who visit him on Christmas night.
“It’s bit like riding a roller coaster. You get on at point A, you get off at point Z and you’ve gone through this wonderful story,” Osbaldeston said.
Charles Dickens novel has been adapted for more than 200 years, but this is the world premiere for this musical version, said George Pothitos, Neptune’s artistic director and director for A Christmas Carol.
“It’s a lavish production, it’s almost fantastical,” he said. “There are a lot of visual treats that help create the message of the story.”
The cast, which features six Nova Scotians, is joined by a childrens’ chorus comprised of 10 eager actors and actresses.
Pothitos hopes the message of the production is what will resonate with viewers.
“We can all be Scrooges in our own way,” Pothitos said. “I hope this will remind us that we should be kinder to each other.”
