Jolly, Mystical, and Spirited: "A Christmas Carol" at North Shore Music Theatre

I will treasure Christmas in my heart.

North Shore Music Theatre presents its signature annual holiday show, “A Christmas Carol,” based on the classic novel by Charles Dickens. Ebenezer Scrooge despises the holidays. On Christmas Eve, he is visited by three ghosts, who show him his past, present, and future, in order to convince him to change his ways for the better.

For the last decade, seeing “A Christmas Carol” at North Shore Music Theatre has become a beloved tradition for me. That tradition is shared by several audiences, old and new, who enjoy the festive show each year. NSMT’s “A Christmas Carol” is a lively tale that expresses the importance of putting our dark demons aside and remaining present.

For his 31st “Christmas Carol” show, David Coffee transforms into his iconic role as Ebenezer Scrooge on the NSMT stage. Coffee has this show memorized, and as his character says, he could do it blindfold. He brings energy, emotion, and a touch of humor.

Scrooge teaches audiences the value of showing compassion, living in the moment, and cherishing the true meaning of the holiday.

NSMT’s “A Christmas Carol” incorporates a talented ensemble, who play various supporting roles. No part is ever small in the theater; that’s what I always say.

Tommy Labanaris returns as the narrator, who guides audiences through the ghostly tale. Labanaris has wonderful diction and a remarkable stage presence throughout the play.

Every year, I sit forward for Jacob Marley’s chilling visit to Scrooge. This is my FAVORITE scene in the show. Flying over audiences in ghoulish makeup, Mark Worth is spectacular as he bellows out Marley’s warnings to Scrooge.

The Ghost of Christmas Past (Daniella Dalli) is the first to visit Scrooge. She takes Scrooge back to significant moments in his past. Dalli has a lovely singing voice and also plays Mrs. Cratchit.

Davron S. Monroe returns as The Ghost of Christmas Present, who is draped in a long red overcoat. His speaking voice and hearty laugh are superb. He teaches Scrooge what he is missing in his current life.

Cheryl McMahon is always a delight as Mrs. Dilber. Her hysterical and frantic reactions always make audiences laugh. Her singing voice shouldn’t go unnoticed, particularly in ‘Isn’t it Grand Boys.’

Amy Bransky and understudy Brianna Fallon are fantastic as the Pearlies, who do incredible flips, cartwheels, and sprinkle ghostly mischief across the stage.

NSMT’s “A Christmas Carol” always brings familiar and new faces to the stage. Nathan Haltiwanger (Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come/Young Scrooge), Henry Thrasher (Fred), Kevin Patrick Martin (Bob Cratchit), and Russell Garrett (Mr. Feeziwig) are all wonderful in their roles. Shoutout to Caroline Siegrist (Belle/Meg), whose singing voice is a highlight in her scenes.

This show wouldn’t be complete without the talented children’s ensemble. Children play various roles in the play, like younger versions of the characters, the Cratchit family, and London children.

The NSMT technical crew is, as always, hard at work creating the magic onstage. The special effects enhance the London town, including colorful lighting, projections, and costumes. Led by Milton Granger, a live orchestra accompanies lively musical numbers, like Fezziwig’s party.

“A Christmas Carol” is a signature show to see in December; It’s never the same experience each year. In the decade I have seen it, I have always found subtle touches that I never noticed before. Kevin P. Hill directs a resonating show that captures the spirit of Dickens’ novel, and its message is vital: Don’t live in the past, remain present, and don’t fret about the future.

Make a new holiday tradition with NSMT's “A Christmas Carol,” which plays at NSMT until Sunday, Dec. 21. Take caution as certain elements of the show may frighten younger audiences, like loud noises, dark sequences, and specters.