Encore Rep. Dazzles Audiences for a Final Weekend with 'A Christmas Carol'

The Encore Repertory Company will hold just three more performances of Charles Dickens' classic holiday tale A Christmas Carol at the this year, and with a fresh interpretation and an impressive display of visual effects, the weekend show promises to be a thoroughly entertaining holiday event. 

In the familiar story, the crotchety Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by four spirits urging him to change his miserable and greedy ways and learn the true meaning of Christmas. Director Ashley Dougan's take adds a creative root to Scrooge's wretched behavior through a colorful journey full of dance and song.

"After being in the play numerous times, the director has done a really nice job of adapting her own script," said Producer Michael Harrison. "It's the same story, but it never gets old because each director brings their own approach."

The performance brings back Encore Repertory veterans in familiar roles, but also will serve as a debut for many newcomers. The role of Belle is played by Megan Kurczy while Ed Benjamin III takes the lead as Scrooge. Rain Jolicoeur plays the part of Martha Cratchit, with Zachary Kelley as Tiny Tim.

Using special effects, sound cues and stage entrances this production creates what Dougan has described as a "darker" feel.

"The visual effects are absolutely breathtaking," said Harrison. "I am a very proud producer."

Harrison added that compared to other holiday events, the two shorter sets of 30 to 40 minutes make this performance ideal for those with young children or older theatergoers that can only sit comfortably for a limited time.

"I know there are a lot of productions going on right now," he added. "But this  one really does put you in the Christmas spirit."

The Stadium Theatre will host performances on Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m.  Admission is $19 for orchestra seating and tickets are available at the Stadium Theatre Box Office or by calling 401-762-4545 and online at www.stadiumtheatre.com.

A Christmas Carol is sponsored by and Coast 93.3 FM.