To kick off this holiday season, Sacred Heart University’s Theatre Arts Program (TAP) will begin their first annual production of A Christmas Carol. Under the direction of Executive Director of Performing Arts, Jerry Goehring, the show will take place in the Edgerton Center from Dec 16-18.
This is no ordinary production of Charles Dickens classic tale. The script has been adapted by senior English major and TAP Vice President Grace Curley.
“Jerry came to me with the idea and I gladly accepted,” said Curley. “Watching A Christmas Carol has always been a tradition with my family. I’m so happy to have the chance to make this story my own.”
According to Curley, the goal of this adaptation was to highlight certain elements of the tale that dive into the backstories of the characters and affirm what it truly means to be human.
“I wanted this version to show that human beings are capable of change, that they can find the thing within themselves that was once lost. I believe this is what captures the true Christmas spirit,” said Curley.
In addition to this student written adaptation, another exciting element of the production is the incorporation of Sacred Heart alumni into the cast and crew. One very special alumni in particular was asked to play the iconic old miser Ebenezer Scrooge. Pixar and Cheers actor John Ratzenberger made his return to the Edgerton stage to take on this role.
“Being a part of this production has allowed me to reminisce,” said Ratzenberger. “I’m surrounded by a very talented group of students and alumni.”
Ratzenberger was moved by the sense of home and community within the program.
“I’ve gotten a lot of help here. I’ve never seen such professionalism within a young group. I’m very impressed by their dedication and enthusiasm,” said Ratzenberger.
TAP alumni have also reprised their duties in designer positions as well.
Kaylie Mallegol ‘22 shared her experience coming back to the stage as lighting designer to work on this unique production.
“I missed my board and my booth,” said Mallegol. “It’s very fun to see all the people I have worked with in the past and meet new people as well, especially the underclassmen.”
Mallegol also shared techniques in bringing Curley’s artistic vision to life.
“My goal for the show was to focus more on bringing out the character of Scrooge. The use of past, present, and future colors are very important in the show,” said Mallegol.
Current TAPpers are just as excited to be a part of this memorable experience.
“We were all given a lot of creative freedom while working on this show,” said senior co-costume designer Marykate Kiley. “As a senior, this experience means so much because this is one of the last times I’ll be able to do something I love surrounded by an amazing cast and crew.”
Junior Kayla Goncalves shared how she was able to take on various roles when working on this production.
“I’m on the hair and makeup team as well as Q-Lab Operator,” said Goncalves. “This is a really great experience as I get to work on two completely different tasks. It’s amazing how the faculty, alumni, cast, and crew have been so supportive and helpful throughout this experience.”
With both past and present Sacred Heart students working together, this production is sure to get everyone in the Christmas spirit and create the blueprint for future adaptations to come.
“In future productions, I hope to see students and alumni continue to come together and build relationships through this experience,” said Curley. “As years go by, the production will continue to grow.”
Be sure to call or get your tickets at the Box Office: http://www.edgertoncenter.org/theatre_arts.php
