Director’s Note
The OHS Drama Club’s Fall 2018 production brings together two long-held passions of mine. As a student at OHS (In a previous millenium!) the OHS Drama Club helped a shy, introverted kid take risks and gain confidence. In over 33 years of advising this dynamic club, I have seen first hand how the shared experience of hard work, dedication and performance combine to make lasting memories and provide lifelong skills.
My fascination with Charles Dickens' immortal classic “A Christmas Carol” extends even further back, beginning with the animated version starring, of all people, Mr. Magoo. I was 5 years old when it first aired, and I am reasonably sure I watched that premier showing with my family. I am certain that the annual showing (remember, this was LONG before VCRs, DVDs or streaming- the only way to view a show was as it was aired) became an annual tradition at the Carlson house.
In the intervening years I have enjoyed the various and numerous incarnations and “twists” of the story, from Patrick Stewart’s stellar portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge to the Muppet (I honestly tried to recruit Mr. Benitz and Mr. Johnson to play Statler and Waldorf, but, alas, they had other obligations!) version.
Each varying take on the story retains the essence of what has always drawn me to the story: a tale of redemption, and the hope of a brighter future. It is truly this essence that we hope shines through tonight. Sit back and enjoy the magic of theatre and of this timeless tale.
-Mr. C.
PS: The Marley scene is intense, please take a moment to prepare young children!
