Archive review: This review covers Goodman Theatre’s 2009 production of A Christmas Carol, its 32nd year, directed by William Brown 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 William Brown
At the Goodman Theatre
Glowing production values keep A Christmas Carol fresh and heartwarming
Now in its 32nd year, the Goodman Theatre’s A Christmas Carol still holds the honor of being the finest holiday show in Chicago! Director William Brown makes subtle changes including this year adding more Victorian holiday music to the mix. He also has several new players that give new energy to the production that already has a collection of Chicago’s finest “A”-list actors.
Dickens’ classic tale of redemption is a lesson that gets us into the holiday spirit by vividly dramatizing how greed and the pursuit of money can corrupt not only an individual but all of society. Dickens’ classic novella is in sure hands at the Goodman as they have annually mounted a stirring production. This year’s Scrooge, for the third year, is Larry Yando. He is magnificent as the money-hungry businessman. Yando shows Scrooge’s mean side yet he also gives hints that he is not beyond redemption.
Once Scrooge is in bed and the Ghost of Marley and others jolt him into realizing “that humanity is his business,” Yando smoothly makes the transformation from nasty to a sweetly kind and generous soul. Larry Yando is a treasure who gives Scrooge a heart. Yando proves once again that he is the finest actor working in Chicago.
Director William Brown has added new musical scenes that enhance the spirit of 1840s London. With all productions of A Christmas Carol playing in the Chicago area, none can compare with the Goodman’s in terms of production values and emotional depth. This is an annual holiday treasure to be savored.
Highly Recommended
Tom Williams
More ChicagoCritic reviews of Goodman Theatre’s A Christmas Carol: 2010 · 2011 · 2012 · 2013 · 2014