A Christmas Carol - The Musical (Bilston Operatic Society)
One of those stories that never loses appeal, curmudgeonly old Ebeneezer Scrooge (played with more than a touch of panache by Nicholas Sullivan) cares not a jot for Christmas and treats his lowly clerk Bob Cratchit shamefully (a part in this version of the story perhaps not as central as in others but, played charmingly by Alastair Smith), similarly his clients and in fact people in general.
However there are some harsh lessons for Ebeneezer as he settles down in his squalid residence with a bowl of gruel (this old miser doesn't even treat himself well). Announced by the dominating, ghostly form of his now deceased partner Jacob Marley (a commanding performance both on the ground and in mid-air by Tim Jones).
Three ghosts will visit him to recount his sad past, remind him of his painful present and predict his doomed future if he does nothing to change his ways, all three of the ghosts around which this story hinges are played in exemplary style. Lydia Tidmarsh appearing initially as a lamplighter is a vocally impressive Ghost of Christmas Past taking Scrooge through his earlier years and bringing a tear to the eye of the audience. Imogen Hall transforms from an old hag to a visually stunning and talented dance depiction of the Ghost of Christmas Future (a welcome change to the usual shrouded silence of this character). Probably the highlight of the show though is Jacob Kohli’s supremely engaging and highly entertaining Ghost of Christmas Present, his rendition of the song ‘Abundance and Charity’ is a totally absorbing moment.
Always a fun filled scene is the party at Fezziwig’s and this version has some added gaiety with Stephen Burton-Pye as the man himself and Alison Inns as his effervescent wife, totally immersed in ‘Mr Fezziwig’s Annual Christmas Ball’.
Scrooge does of course come good, nobody could change the fundamental premise of the Dickens story and a large ensemble cast present the final scene in all its glory, topped off with some snow, a rousing round of applause and that warm feeling that the festive season is just around the corner.
Managed to grab a few minutes talking to MD, Ian Stephenson before the performance and it appears this is not an easy score, needing some interpretation, which Ian and the orchestra tackle exceptionally. It’s fair to say this is still a highly musical piece which is no surprise with the name Alan Menken involved and some intriguing lyrics from Lynn Aherns.
Many will be expecting the version from Leslie Bricusse but, they won’t be disappointed by this interpretation of the timeless story. Only a very slim chance of being able to see this one though as it finishes Saturday 25th November so grab your chance for some Christmas Cheer while you can.
Book Here
However there are some harsh lessons for Ebeneezer as he settles down in his squalid residence with a bowl of gruel (this old miser doesn't even treat himself well). Announced by the dominating, ghostly form of his now deceased partner Jacob Marley (a commanding performance both on the ground and in mid-air by Tim Jones).
Three ghosts will visit him to recount his sad past, remind him of his painful present and predict his doomed future if he does nothing to change his ways, all three of the ghosts around which this story hinges are played in exemplary style. Lydia Tidmarsh appearing initially as a lamplighter is a vocally impressive Ghost of Christmas Past taking Scrooge through his earlier years and bringing a tear to the eye of the audience. Imogen Hall transforms from an old hag to a visually stunning and talented dance depiction of the Ghost of Christmas Future (a welcome change to the usual shrouded silence of this character). Probably the highlight of the show though is Jacob Kohli’s supremely engaging and highly entertaining Ghost of Christmas Present, his rendition of the song ‘Abundance and Charity’ is a totally absorbing moment.
Always a fun filled scene is the party at Fezziwig’s and this version has some added gaiety with Stephen Burton-Pye as the man himself and Alison Inns as his effervescent wife, totally immersed in ‘Mr Fezziwig’s Annual Christmas Ball’.
Scrooge does of course come good, nobody could change the fundamental premise of the Dickens story and a large ensemble cast present the final scene in all its glory, topped off with some snow, a rousing round of applause and that warm feeling that the festive season is just around the corner.
Managed to grab a few minutes talking to MD, Ian Stephenson before the performance and it appears this is not an easy score, needing some interpretation, which Ian and the orchestra tackle exceptionally. It’s fair to say this is still a highly musical piece which is no surprise with the name Alan Menken involved and some intriguing lyrics from Lynn Aherns.
Many will be expecting the version from Leslie Bricusse but, they won’t be disappointed by this interpretation of the timeless story. Only a very slim chance of being able to see this one though as it finishes Saturday 25th November so grab your chance for some Christmas Cheer while you can.
Book Here
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