Cumberland brings 'A Christmas Carol' to stage

Cumberland University’s Pheonix Players will bring to life Charles Dickens’ classic holiday tale, “A Christmas Carol,” beginning Thursday at the June and Bill Heydel Fine Arts Center Theatre.

“’A Christmas Carol is a show that everybody knows, and we want to do our own unique version of it,” said Elijah Dies, Cumberland University theater instructor and play director.

“We’re focusing on the ghost story aspect of it. I want to highlight the fact that the story takes place in an impoverished area of London, and that Scrooge has to see a grim side of life via the ghosts to make his personal transformation.”

The production is a musical adaptation written and scored by Sheldon Harnick and Michel Legrand.

“All of the music is original to the show,” said Dies.

Brian Killian, professor of music, will oversee the production’s music, which will feature choral accompaniment from Cumberland students.

Music styles range from love ballads to polkas to original Christmas carols.

While the university’s music department frequently performs during the holidays, the theatre department’s productions are generally performed in the spring.

“This is really the first time that the theatre department has done a holiday show,” said Dies.

Dies, an alumnus of both Cumberland University and Austin Peay, said recollections of holiday performances at Austin Peay and their popularity prompted this production.

Based on early response to this production, it could prove just as popular in Lebanon.

“We’re doing really well with reservations,” said Dies. About 800 tickets were reserved Tuesday.

The show is free to the public, but Dies suggested  people interested in attending may want to reserve tickets.

“We do have tickets available, but there is the potential that we will have some nights sell out,” said Dies.

Show times are Thursday through Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. A closed matinee will show Friday at 10:30 a.m. for area schools.

Admission is free. To make reservations in advance, call 615-547-1364.