Archive review: This review covers Goodman Theatre’s 2012 production of A Christmas Carol, its 35th year, directed by Steve Scott with Larry Yando as Scrooge. For current dates and tickets, see our Chicago holiday shows guide.
By Charles Dickens
Adapted by Tom Creamer
Directed by Steve Scott
At the Goodman Theatre, Chicago
Still going strong at 35 years old
Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, now in its 35th year at the Goodman Theatre, is not only one of the finest holiday shows — it is one of the best theatrical productions ever! The creatives at the Goodman Theatre keep the show fresh each year by adding new actors to infuse the show with spirit and heart. It is a privilege for Chicago actors to be in the Goodman’s A Christmas Carol.
I have seen this annual gem many times with an assortment of Scrooges including William J. Norris, Frank Galati, Tom Mula, Rick Snyder, William Brown, Jonathan Weir, John Judd and Larry Yando. Each has played the nasty, money-loving old man with both pathos and humor as the nasty, lonely man finds redemption. I must say that Larry Yando is the ultimate Scrooge. He moves from scary to pathetic to glowing kindness as he comes to grips with his folly. With a blend of terror and humor, Yando gets us to first hate then love the money-hoarding old man. Yando gives the role a zesty brand of life that makes Scrooge’s redemption a major triumph of humanity. Larry Yando anchors a terrific cast dedicated to the work. Get to see the Goodman’s production of A Christmas Carol to get a jolt of holiday spirit and to witness a fabulous Chicago actor at the height of his craft.
Highly Recommended
Tom Williams
Talk Theatre in Chicago
Date Reviewed: November 25, 2012
Jeff Recommended
For more info, check out the A Christmas Carol page at theatreinchicago.com.
More ChicagoCritic reviews of Goodman Theatre’s A Christmas Carol: 2009 · 2010 · 2011 · 2013 · 2014