Archive review: This review covers Goodman Theatre’s 2013 production of A Christmas Carol, its 36th year, directed by Henry Wishcamper with Larry Yando as Scrooge. It ran through Dec. 28, 2013. For current dates and tickets, see our Chicago holiday shows guide.
Adapted by Tom Creamer
Directed by Henry Wishcamper
At the Goodman Theatre, Chicago
Subtle changes only add to the charm of Dickens’ classic holiday drama
Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, now in its 36th year at the Goodman Theatre, is not only one of the finest holiday shows — it is one of the best theatrical productions staged in Chicago! First-time director Henry Wishcamper adds a few subtle changes and new actors to keep the show fresh and infuse it 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 once again proves that he 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.
Todd Rosenthal’s set now includes a new house for Marley next to Scrooge’s home. We see the doorknob on the door, now on the right side of the house, foreshadow the events to come during Scrooge’s journey toward redemption. This production, as usual, has loads of heart and it sure gets us into the spirit of the holidays. If you want to regain your family’s spirit of the holidays, get to the Goodman Theatre and take Scrooge’s journey with him. Your spirit will become renewed.
Highly Recommended
Tom Williams
Talk Theatre in Chicago podcast
Date Reviewed: November 24, 2013
For more info, check out the A Christmas Carol page at theatreinchicago.com. Performances ran through Dec. 28, 2013, at Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St., Chicago. Running time was 2 hours, 20 minutes with intermission.
More ChicagoCritic reviews of Goodman Theatre’s A Christmas Carol: 2009 · 2010 · 2011 · 2012 · 2014