A Magical Production of “A Christmas Carol" at Theater Three

“No sweeter, healthier or more cheerful work of fiction has ever been written for young people, or old ones too for that matter.”

~ From the “Prefatory Note” to “A Christmas Carol.”

As I look over my prized, 61 page copy of an 1897 published version of “A Christmas Carol,” it’s rather shocking to think that this larger-than-life tale of redemption, which looms like a giant among literary works, was really such a short piece; yet its impact on the world since its first publication in December 1843, has been nothing short of monumental. When Dickens was writing it, he claimed the characters and the story seemed to possess him, and he completed this immortal masterpiece in a mere six weeks time.

Theater Three’s wonderful tradition of putting on a yearly production of “A Christmas Carol, In Prose, Being a Ghost Story of Christmas,” is as welcomed and beloved as Christmas itself. From the moment you approach the theater, with Christmas lights announcing “A Christmas Carol,” the magic begins. In the lobby, the festive mood continues when you are greeted by Christmas carolers, joyfully singing many of our all-time favorite holiday songs.

There are few people in theater as multi-talented as Long Island’s own Jeffrey Sanzel, Theater Three’s Artistic Director. This is the 32nd time Mr. Sanzel has portrayed Scrooge at this theater. This year’s production, and I am assuming all of the shows this artistic genius has ever staged of this classic, holiday favorite, hit the theatrical trifecta with his brilliant adaption of this classic work, his masterful direction, and his Tony-award-worthy portrayal of the legendary Scrooge.

Dickens’ ghostly, Christmastime, masterpiece is brimming with meaningful themes, including the importance of kindness, redemption, spirituality, charity, compassion, gratitude, forgiveness, poverty, the power of love, and the soul-destroying effects that greed, bitterness, and isolation can have on a person. Different themes will jump out at us at different stages of our lives, and so, “A Christmas Carol,” is one of those rare stories that we can experience over and over again, and yet see something new in it every time.

The cast members who portrayed the “ghosts” all gave riveting performances. Andrew Lenahan, a Theater Three favorite, makes for a very compelling Jacob Marley, and yes, Jacob Marley is dead, and Dickens was most clear about this from the start, with his opening lines, “Marley was dead, to begin with. There is no doubt whatever about that.” Mr. Lenahan commands the stage from the first moment he enters covered in chains and surrounded by the fires of hell.

Steven T. Wangner was a most charismatic Ghost of Christmas Present. He has an incredible speaking voice and amazing stage presence which made every line he delivered a memorable one.

Michelle LaBozzetta was brilliant as The Ghost of Christmas Past. Steven Uihlein, as The Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come, stole the show as he maneuvered one of the best costumes you might ever see anywhere, anytime. He entered in foggy lights and his spectacularly enormous presence took my breath away.

Kyle Imperatore, as Mr. Fezziwig, Scrooge’s first employer, proved his talent for mastering comedic timing as he delivered his lines with just the right emphasis, facial nuances, and body language. Ginger Dalton was a most likable Mrs. Fezziwig, and she gave outstanding performances as The Duchess and as as the housekeeper as well. Douglas J. Quattock made for a very convincing Bob Cratchit. He also has an incredible singing voice, which brought tears to my eyes.

The entire ensemble, under Mr. Sanzel’s astute direction, was incredible. Kudos to the many talented children, who added a magic of their own to the show.

This spirited production is bursting with talent: great acting, riveting directing, dazzling costumes, a breathtaking set design, and mesmerizing special effects, including a touching snow scene at the end.

The show is running until December 28, and it's one you will want to bring the family to, but please note that no children under 5 are permitted. For the younger set, take them to see Theater Three's exuberant production of "Barnaby Saves Christmas," which also runs until December 28.

We all have more than enough things, so treat your friends and family to a theatrical experience that will warm their hearts throughout this holiday season. For tickets, call (631) 928-9100 or buy them on line: https://theatrethree.com/christmas_carol-2019.html

Cindi Sansone-Braff is an award-winning playwright, and the author of two spiritual self-help books, "Grant Me a Higher Love," and "Why Good People Can't Leave Bad Relationships." Her full-length romantic comedy, "Angel's Mice and Men," just had its world premiere at the Hudson Guild Theater as part of the NY Summerfest 2019 Theater Festival.