Highly Recommended I really enjoyed Charles Dickens Begrudgingly Performs A Christmas Carol, Blake Montgomery’s Jeffrey Award-winning one-man show. The genial Montgomery, wearing reindeer ears and a battle worn tail-coat, greeted and welcomed us as we claimed our seats, even offering candy canes before he began the program. 4 Spotlights
Apparently, Charles Dickens (Montgomery) didn’t die, he just faded away until time to perform his Christmas story once again for the 172nd time. Instead, he wants to have a party, his first annual. In fact, he’s had a sign made to replace the original. He takes time to admire holiday attire, he has tea and candy canes to share, and he even bought a boombox.
When he mentions The Play appearing at a downtown theater, the Spirits of Christmas have apparently had enough, turning off the lights just to let him know he’s on the wrong track. Once he gets them back on – because he gave the lighting tech the night off – he tries again, but the Spirits aren’t having it. When his annotated copy of A Christmas Carol disappears from its box, he decides to improvise as he tells the story.
Dickens actually does tell the story quite well, although he stops often to comment on a phrase or sentence, saying things like “I can’t imagine what I was thinking” or “This makes no sense at all.” His retelling of the story was so warm and interesting I think I enjoyed it more than that play.
Charles Dickens Begrudgingly Performs ‘A Christmas Carol’ Again made its Chicago at the old Building Stage in December 2011, winning a 2012 non-Equity Jeff Award. This production was directed by Jonathan Berry. (Photos by Joe Mazza)
Charles Dickens Begrudgingly Performs ‘A Christmas Carol’ Again runs through December 28th at Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago. Parking is available in Theater Wit’s parking lot across the street for $10 (pay at the Box Office).
Running time: 95 minutes, no intermission. Performances: Thursday through Saturday at 8:00 pm, Sunday at 3;00 pm. There is no performance on December 25th; there is a 3:00 pm matinee on Saturday, December 27th. Show is recommended for ages 15 & over. Tickets are $45. FYI (773) 975-8150 or www.theaterwit.org.