BS Productions’ adaptation of A Christmas Carol is a fun and modern take on Charles Dickens’ classic tale. Set in contemporary times, this production effortlessly translates the story into a relatable experience for today’s audience.
The show is the perfect family Christmas celebration with something for young and old. And what’s best is that you can graciously and benevolently arrange for your entire family to see the show together as the chosen means of sharing in holiday joy together – whilst leaving very limited time for conversation about Uncle John’s political persuasions. Sounds like a win/win.
A Christmas Carol presented by BS Productions.
As is mandatory at this time of year – the production reminds us of the ‘true’ meaning of Christmas. It is almost unthinkable that 180 years has passed sine Dickens’ wrote his story and yet the themes of greed, hardship and gratitude are as relevant as ever in the current #cossi living crisis.
The play opens with Ebenezer Scrooge, now a cynical landlord, dismissing the holiday spirit as a waste of time and money. The journey from a greedy, self-centered businessman to a generous and caring individual is seamlessly portrayed with a perfect amount of comedy.
The supporting cast performances are both humorous and touching. The modern-day Cratchit family struggles with financial hardships, making their plight even more poignant and relevant.
The portrayal of ‘present day’ Christmas is the highlight of the show – the music, script and performances combine for knock out laughter and high energy. I felt as if I really was in Garden City.
A Christmas Carol presented by BS Productions.
BS Productions’ use of contemporary language and settings makes the story accessible and engaging for adults and children alike. The dialogue is filled with modern slang and references that are balanced with Dickens’ original text in moments of high drama.
The production’s message about the true meaning of Christmas is clear and powerful. It emphasises the importance of compassion, generosity, and community, urging the audience to look beyond materialism and embrace the spirit of giving. The final scene, where Scrooge joins the Cratchit family for a heartfelt Christmas celebration, leaves a lasting impression of warmth. Scrooge also agrees to provide Cratchit with minimum employment entitlements like annual leave which, as an employment lawyer, filled me with joy (and concern).
Overall, BS Productions’ A Christmas Carol is a delightful and thought-provoking adaptation that successfully brings a timeless story into the present day that is perfect for the whole family.
A Christmas Carol is presented by BS Productions and is on at Subiaco Arts Centre from 4-21st Dec.