20th-century "Christmas Carol' on tap at ROH

Tiny Tim (Analise Marin) and Scrooge (Adam MacDougall. (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - Charles Dickens’ timeless classic tale A Christmas Carol turns modern at the Rochester Opera House on Thursday, Friday & Saturday, December 19, 20 & 21 at 7 p.m. and on Saturday & Sunday, December 21 & 22 at 2 p.m.

The play traces the life of miserly Scrooge from his childhood in the 1940s through his adulthood in the late twentieth century. Director Shay Willard weaves the magic of this beloved Christmas tale into a family friendly story in a contemporary setting with the captivating sound of live music. Music Director Kathy Fink and her musicians play holiday favorites like “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree,” “Baby it's Cold Outside,” as well as, original music written for this production.

 On Christmas Eve, Scrooge (Adam MacDougall) begrudgingly dismisses Cratchitt (Todd Fernald), Fred (Jerard-James Craven) and the rest of his long-suffering employees, who are anxious to celebrate the joyous holiday season.  Scrooge, alone with his bah-humbug self, receives a surprise visit by the ghost of his dead partner, Jacob Marley (Greg Bell). Marley must convince Scrooge not to follow his path to a dreary destiny. Jacob promises Scrooge a chance at redemption as he sends him on a journey through time - meeting blissful and terrifying spirits along the way, who all help to teach Scrooge the true meaning of Christmas.

 The public can purchase tickets online at RochesterOperaHouse.com or call/stop by the box office (603) 335-1992 on M/W/F from 10-5 or two hours before the show. The show is sponsored by TD Bank, Foster’s Daily Democrat, Albany International, PSNH, Bank of NH and WTSN 1270 AM.  Rochester Opera House is located in City Hall, 31 Wakefield St., Rochester.