a christmas
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens is the quintessential festive heartwarmer . A ghost story in which cheer and goodness defeat meanness and misery . On Christmas Eve , the most magical night of the year , the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge is whisked away on a journey into his past and future , accompanied by three ghosts determined to show him the true meaning of Christmas .
At the end of the Michaelmas term , the senior school ’ s adaptation of this classic tale brought joy , sadness and a touch of seasonal magic to the Tom Stoppard Theatre . In just eight weeks the cast and backstage crew collaborated to produce a visually spectacular production .
Steven Ryan ’ s set comprised of huge doors , windows , locks and lanterns , seemed to suggest Scrooge is somehow trapped until light seeps through the windows ; symbolic of a spiritual force guiding him on a journey of enlightenment . Impressive lighting design produced by Tom Stocks , Billy Spruyt , Henry Rodmell , Samuel Perry and Harry Newbould enhanced the set and captured the quick shifting moods and times of day beautifully . Worthy of mention were the wonderful costumes designed by Cheryl White and Xylia Milsom which reflected the period exceptionally well . The ghosts ’ attire with stunning lit headpieces wowed audiences and gave each spirit a touch of Christmas magic .
Admiration also goes to Zac Stewart and his team of musicians , ( Louis Toulmin , Ella McLane and Adam Barnes ) who composed an original score ; inspired by former head of English Dr Rowe . Their choral arrangements of carols sung beautifully by the ensemble were one of the many highlights in this production . A special thanks must also go to an outstanding stage manager , Emma Watson , who somehow enabled scenes to transition and flow seamlessly between past , present and future worlds !
The Drama department were delighted to welcome back Josh Nolan to play Scrooge and once again tread the boards in the Tom Stoppard Theatre ! Josh was an outstanding lead and won over audiences with his utterly convincing and moving portrayal of the miser figure transformed and eager to change his selfish ways .
The opening clerks ’ scene set in Scrooge ’ s office led by Dylan McLane , set an oppressive mood , depicting a pitiful group of overworked , underpaid employees . Meanwhile , a heartless Scrooge counted out his pennies and scowled as Bob Cratchit , ( Henry Hudson ) dared to challenge his working conditions . Henry Hudson brought just the right amount of humility and humbleness to his role as Bob Cratchit . Phoebe Anderson and Fiona Tilsed brought comic timing to their cameo roles of Lady Tibshelf and Mrs Trowell , do gooders doomed with persuading Scrooge to part with coins in exchange for charity to help the poor .
There were strong performances by Freddie Griggs as Jacob Marley ’ s ghost who staggered onto the stage with rusty chains he ‘ forged in life ’
82 THE POCKLINGTONIAN