By Shirley Lorraine –
The Elite Theatre Company has had a challenging year and has been dark for months. Just in time for the holidays, however, they are presenting A Christmas Carol Experience – a one hour walking tour through Charles Dicken’ classic tale of redemption.
The familiar work has been adapted and condensed by Elixeo Flores. Those who have attended Santa Paula Theater Center’s annual Ghostwalks will find this evening presentation entertaining and fun as it combines a short walk inside and around the theater with live performances. At each “stop,” Ebeneezer Scrooge brings a portion of the story to life. He is joined by Christmas Past, Present and Future, reminding him of the wayward path he has taken.
Three different actors portray the well-known skinflint, depending on which tour time you choose. They are Lynn Van Emmerik, Larry Gund and Johnny Avila. Each lead their tourists from one stop to the next smoothly.
Newcomer Hayden Griffith takes the stage as Scrooge’s nephew Fred. Jacob Marley is risen from the dead by Jonathan Cahuantzi with the aid of a clever special effect. Ariana Davenport portrays Christmas Past as well as other characters as she confronts Scrooge with his actions. Christmas Present gives Sarah Ely an opportunity to offer a harsh look at Scrooge’s current predicament, while Quincy Booker adds a humorous twist to the specter of Christmas Future.
Each performance area has several chairs and is individually lit. The actors are nicely costumed in just enough period garb to accent the scenes. Sets and costume design are credited to Sheryl Jo Bedal. The minimal backdrops are just enough. Costumes are pleasing without being too complicated. Nicely done.
There are changes in the wind for this long-standing theater company. They are seeking a new home as the Channel Islands plaza they currently inhabit will soon be undergoing some extensive remodeling. All leads are welcome as the search continues.
The first few scenes take place inside the theater itself which is quite dark. The rest of the scenes take place outside. Remember that the location is near a body of water and it is December. It gets very chilly even here in Ventura County. A scarf, hat to keep your ears warm, a substantial jacket and gloves are recommended. A small flashlight might help illuminate your path. Comfort and warmth are in order.
Three directors each put two of the six scenes together. Theresa Secor, Christine Adams, and Jadzia Winter shared the duties with success.
Elixeo Flores did a stellar job of distilling the familiar work to tell the classic take in a new and creative way. A little dash of Dickens always puts a bow on the season.
A Christmas Carol Experience runs on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings through December 21. Tours start at 6:30 p.m. with a new tour every 15 minutes. Tours are nicely timed for exactly one hour. Check the website for tour times. www.theElite.org or 608-301-5547.
