KC Rep presents A Christmas Carol at UMKC-Spencer Theatre, Kansas City MO (thru Dec 24,2023)

Kansas City holiday traditions- Plaza Lights, the Nutcracker Ballet, and of course, KC Rep’s production of A Christmas Carol!

The acclaimed repertory theater group is not only celebrating its landmark 60^th season, but this annual Charles Dickens classic returns for its 42^nd straight year (pandemic not included!) and has rightfully become an annual tradition and part of the holiday season for families, theater fans, and anyone that adores the redemptive tale.

The 1843 story of Ebenezer Scrooge, an elderly miser who is visited by the ghost of his former business partner Jacob Marley and the spirits of Christmas Past, Present, and Future, to rediscover the true meaning of the holidays, transforming him into a kinder, gentler man. Familiar supporting characters, the Cratchits, Tiny Tim, and the Fezziwigs, and familiar holiday songs, all help bring the classic tale to life.

This version, adapted for the stage by Geoff Elliott and directed by Jason Chanos is impeccably executed, briskly paced, and refreshing- running approximately 100 minutes with a fifteen-minute intermission.

Scenic Design by John Ezell is spot-on, aided by a large revolving stage (and even a small trap door) and Costume designer Jenny Green’s wardrobes range from appropriately shabby to ornate and extravagant, depending on the character and situation.

Music Director/Pianist Anthony Edwards is assisted by a harpist and violinist and sonically embellishes each scene with the right amount of musical pathos- enough to embellish the drama, but not overdone to overpower any scene.

In this version, a narrator (played by Nedra Dixon) anchors the story and introduces the audience to the characters and the plight of Scrooge (effortlessly played by the [23^rd time!] returning Gary Neal Johnson, who seems born for the role.)

John Rensenhouse is scary and effective as the ghost of Jacob Marley, well-lit and shambling while supporting a bevy of symbolic chains, to warn his former business partner. Following, Scrooge is visited in order by the notorious trio, the Ghosts of Christmas Past (Chioma Anyanwu), Present (Matt Rapport), and Future, aka Yet to Come (Tanner Rose).

Rapport is especially noteworthy, dressed in elegant greens and earth tones, towering over the others, and expertly going into the audience to hilariously spread holiday cheer to the crowd in his own unique way. In fact, the Rep’s ability to use all the aisles of the venue during most productions, make those that much more memorable and interactive.

Even the smallest details of the production are very well-suited and thought out, and the similarly solid ensemble cast, leave no doubt that the company has perfected its presentation of the tale. Its brevity and lightheartedness make a convincing argument that this version should be seen annually, to set the mood for the season and begin a tradition that so many locals have already embraced.

Note that some performances during the run are marked “Scrooge Saver”, allowing entry for a reduced price (reinforcing the company’s “Theater for all” mission) and the upcoming Sunday, December 3rd 5pm performance will include ASL interpretation from Juliana Ladd and Jasmine Velasco.

No “Humbug” in this production, KC Rep’s A Christmas Carol is an ideal holiday gift that keeps giving.

 (KC Rep production photos by Don Ipock were provided / Click on any image to enlarge and see in full)