Charles Dickens joyfully ushers everyone into their seats. He is in a happy mood as he passes out mini candy canes. When the show begins, he resists starting the reading. Instead, he suggests that everyone should go see the production downtown. They are doing a full play, instead of just a reading, he says. (He is referring to the Goodman Theatre. See our review here). 

Rather than doing ‘A Christmas Carol’, he prefers to throw a holiday party. But, the spirits won’t allow it. They keep turning off the party lights and introducing him. So, begrudgingly, he begins. With just a few asides, he proceeds to tell the entire story in a very suprisingly enthusiastic manner. 

Thus, the title is a bit misleading. It leads one to believe the reading will be done reluctantly, perhaps in a funny, sarcastic manner. Instead, it’s a mostly straightforward telling of the story. 

Blake Montgomery is excellent as Charles Dickens, who truly enjoys his 171st year of performing his most famous work. 

Get tickets now for  Charles Dickens Begrudgingly Performs ‘A Christmas Carol’ Again through December 22nd. 

Cost of a ticket: $38

PlaylistHQ Economic Rating: Discounted + 

Rating Scale: Exceptional Value > Worth It > Discounted > Go for Free > Don’t Bother

Quinn Delaney