VICTORIA HENLEY: Theatre Albany gives unique take on ‘A Christmas Carol’

Charles Dickens’ classic tale, “A Christmas Carol” is arguably one of the most well known tales ever written and is just as closely associated with the holiday season as Santa Claus or fruitcake. The story of a man’s journey from apathy and greed to freedom through generosity (guided by the spirits of Christmas past, present and future) has been adapted and formatted countless times for various stage, screen — even theme park — rendition, but Theatre Albany’s creative director and resident visionary, Mark Costello, adapted the story in a manner that stays true to all the Dickensian elements that audiences expect but gives the story a unique and fresh feel.

Costello adapted the script from the original story in the mid ’90s, and the theatre performs his very own version of the play every five years, delivering an experience you cannot find anywhere else. The cast, boasting an eclectic group of actors ranging from 6 years old to seniors in high school to seniors (…in life) are all well suited for their roles, and many ensemble members of this intimate cast each play an array of parts, effortlessly switching between characters and time periods.

The leading man is portrayed by Lloyd Saxon, who is portraying Scrooge for the fourth time, and he plays the role with great aplomb and commitment. Whether he is longing to go back and change the person he ultimately became following his start as a lowly apprentice, begging to not be met with doom in Christmas yet to come or rejoicing at his new-found lease on life, Saxon fully embodies the character and makes you believe that Dickens had him in mind when the role was written.

While some Christmas Carol theatrical productions or adaptions choose to go with elaborate sets or over-the-top add-on musical numbers, Theatre Albany keeps it simple and uncomplicated, letting the actors — not the set or special effects — steal the show. Another unique aspect of this production are the oriental songs performed by the talented young “carolers,” numbers which were written specifically for this show.

Considering the ongoing success Theatre Albany’s “A Christmas Carol” has enjoyed, this beloved tale will undoubtedly return for many “Christmases Yet To Come.” But when asked if he will return to play the show’s iconic leading curmudgeon, Saxon shakes his head “no” and says this will “definitely” be his final performance, as he would be 90 by the time the next show rolls around (after the usual five-year time period) and does not feel he could have the stamina for the grueling rehearsals and nightly drives to the theatre (although it certainly does not appear he will be running out of energy anytime soon).

So, there you have it, fellow theatre-goers … if you want to see the brilliant Saxon in his final portrayal of the leading man in this touching adaption by a visionary local director, now is your chance. To purchase tickets for the show (which closes Sunday), visit www.theatrealbany.com.

After placing Top 5 on Cycle 19 of America’s Next Top Model, Victoria Henley went on to headline shows/ad campaigns for Mara Hoffman, Neimans, Saks, spreads for Vogue Italia, Runway Magazine etc. She earned acclaim from Oscar Winning director Ron Howard and Canon international with the short film, “Shoot Me.” In addition to serving as editor in chief of the newly launched Magnifique Magazine , she contributes for a wide array of publications and will be covering upcoming theatrical events at Pensacola Little Theatre, Pensacola Ballet, and the Monticello Opera House. To connect with Victoria Henley, follow her on Instagram: @victoriahenley and on Facebook (facebook.com/quirkyvictoriafanpage) or call (229) 416-7108.