A Christmas Carol. Charles Dickens’ classic adapted for the stage, is a theatre tradition in our area. Michael Wilson’s adaptation at Hartford Stage (November 23-December 29), adapted by Michael Wilson, is all flash, spectacle, and theatrics. Allen Gilmore plays Scrooge, and the cast includes Noble Shropshire, Hero Marguerite, John-Andrew Morrison, and Vanessa R. Butler. Amongst the younger actors: Springfield actor Ari Mendonza. Berkshire Theatre Group’s adaptation by Eric Hill (December 5-22) is more simple and sentimental. David Adkins and Isadora Wolfe co-direct. Either production is satisfying, and a great way to introduce children to live theatre. For Hartford Stage details: www.hartfordstage.org. For BTG details: www.berkshiretheatregroup.org.
A Christmas Story The Musical, is a faithful adaptation of the movie (with Ralphie), with book by Joseph Robinette and music and lyrics by EGOT winners Bennj Pasek and Justin Paul. Hunter Foster directs the Goodspeed Musicals production (through December 29). Goodspeed favorites John Scherer and Rashidra Scott (who played Pearl Bailey at Goodspeed in a tent by the river during the pandemic) star. For details: www.goodspeed.org.
