CHS to perform Dicken's classic

Carson High School Performing Arts and the Brewery Arts Center present a holiday classic, Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" Dec. 3, 9 and 10 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 4, 11 and 12 at 2 p.m.

"A Christmas Carol" is a traditional adaptation of the favorite Yule-time fable adapted and directed by Carson High School drama instructor Karen Chandler with original music by Carson High School senior Kyle Rothschild.

Chandler says, "When I was adapting the script, I was taken by the original title 'A Ghost Story of Christmas.' The ghosts needed to not only be the instruments of Scrooge's salvation, but seen throughout. All 40 actors in the production stay on stage at all times, cloaked in hooded capes in the shadows. They come out of the darkness to be the Cratchits, Belle and Fan."

The script includes all the favorite scenes plus some that are not always included in the play, such as the party scene at Scrooge's nephew's house on Christmas Day. There is also a scene where Scrooge sees an impoverished family that rejoices at his death since he has a lien against their home. Of course, all the traditional favorites will be included such as Fezziwig's party, the Cratchit family scenes and Scrooge's graveyard redemption.

The show has been double cast with high school students alternating lead and ghost roles. Cast members include Nick Josten and Joe Fabrizio as Scrooge; Cody Salinas and Kevin Bunch as Fred; Everett Jesse as Bob Cratchit; Rodrigo Malgarejo and Nate Clark as Marley; Angie Law and Luann Knowles as Ghost of Christmas Past; Kelly Troescher and Katelyn Harris as Ghost of Christmas Present; and David Villareal and Kyle Rothschild as Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come.

Joining the cast for his last appearance as Tiny Tim is sixth-grader Glenn Rowley. Glenn first played Tiny Tim in the performance of "A Christmas Carol" for Carson High when he was only 6 years old. He played the role again at age 8 and again last year in a spoof scene included in "Oh, Little Town of Christmas." After this year, he will be too big, but the cast is happy to have him with them for his swan song performance as Tim.

There will be Christmas carolers singing the songs of the season. Santa Claus is scheduled to make an appearance at the end and hand out candy with the cast members.

Tickets are $8 general admission, $6 students, seniors and art center members and $5 for children under 12 and Carson High student body card holders. For ticket reservation and information call 883-1976.