Christmas Carol, A

One would guess that, after more than three decades of producing A Christmas Carol as part of its regular season, the annual Milwaukee Repertory Theater production may be getting shabby around the edges. Nothing could be further from the truth. A sparkling opening night performance kicked off this annual yuletide treat.

The show is performed in Milwaukee's gorgeously restored Victorian-era Pabst Theater, which is resplendently adorned in gold leaf, red velvet and crystal. A Christmas Carol could hardly find a more appropriate home. This year's show reflects changes that have proven to be a hit with earlier audiences. Traditional English carols are sung throughout the performance, heightening the show's emotional context. And some of the scarier theatrical aspects have been eliminated. No longer do toddlers begin to whimper and climb up on their mother's laps at the sight of a loud or unexpected stage trick. The show is now family-friendly from start to finish.

This year's production brings back a most familiar face. Veteran actor James Pickering has played the character of Scrooge for more than 10 years (not consecutively, however). So it is no surprise that Pickering commands the stage with his booming presence. Dressed in the requisite black top hat and long black coat, he makes all the dismissive remarks and pinched faces that one expects from such an insensitive, miserly man. Pickering is letter-perfect in every respect as Scrooge, but his character couldn't make the successful transition from skinflint to generous benefactor without the assistance of many other actors. In this respect, Pickering is ably supported by a skilled and enthusiastic cast. Although space limitations prevent mentioning them all, one who particularly stands out is Jonathan Gillard Daly as Bob Cratchit. Although physically equal in height to his employer (Scrooge), one would never guess it from watching Cratchit's submissiveness. Through his character, Daly expresses the common fear that one false move might mean the end of one's paychecks. In contrast, Scrooge's nephew, Fred, pokes fun at the old man's foibles. Knowing how to pique Scrooge's anger, Fred (played by Brian Vaughn) makes a jolly show of annoying the old coot.

Vaughn portrays an upbeat demeanor that seems invincible to Scrooge's sour behavior. Fred's wife, Catherine, a charming and buoyant hostess, is brought to life by Elizabeth Ledo. Her Catherine is no frail flower. She is a woman who displays pluck, wisdom and a deep sense of familial harmony.

Also notable on the distaff side is Jenny Wanasek as Scrooge's grumbling housekeeper, Mrs. Dilber. Wanasek's "shock" at seeing the newly "transformed" Scrooge is a gem. In addition, all the various "ghosts" give serviceable performances, led by Mark Corkins as the Ghost of Christmas Present. Director Judy Berdan wisely allows Corkins to "orchestrate" his visit, spreading cheer like so much pixie dust among the populace. The well-choreographed ensemble creates a bustling London, chock-full of the entire spectrum of humanity: the well-to-do, merchants, businessmen, thieves and beggars. They are lovingly framed in a number of gorgeous sets and beautifully lit.

For the audience, one of the most breathtaking sights comes when the entire casts assembles behind a scrim, carrying candles that appear to be the only sources of light. The effect is both simple and dazzling – adjectives that can describe the entire production as well.