Family connections in A Christmas Carol

“For teenage boys who don’t want to have a lot to do with their parents, this is an ideal opportunity to bond,” said Jim Chandler.

“But the reality is, we don’t even talk to each other,” he paused thoughtfully, and added with a smile, “which is why we get along so well together.”

There are several parents performing with their offspring in this Mark Palmer directed play.

On stage, Gordon Rothwell and his son Stephen play the elder and younger Scrooge.

“It’s nothing really all that different. It’s kind of enjoyable. When I don’t know when rehearsals are he’s always right on top of it,” said Stephen.

His dad chuckles at Stephen’s comment about rehearsals.

“It’s easy for me to remember. Scrooge is in every scene. This a real family affair as Anne-Marie (his wife) is playing horn in the pit. Our other son lives in Dartmouth. He goes out of his way to get out of these things,” he laughed.

Jonathan Kini says this is the first play for his daughters Katherine (nine) and Ella (six). Their major scene involves peeking out from beneath Kini’s cloak as Ignorance and Want. Kini plays the Ghost of Christmas Present.

“They’re both a little nervous,” said Kini.

“But they just have to stand there looking forlorn and sad, which isn’t really a stretch for them,” he chuckled.

“What’s neat is they are singing my songs around the house at home. I think it’s going to be fun for them,” he said.

Actress Jean Vallillee-Muise has been bringing her daughter Chelsea to Th’YARC for rehearsals and plays since she was three months old.

“I’ve seen her grow from being very timid to shining on her own,” said Vallillee-Muise. Chelsea’s been in at least 20 plays over that time.

“I love working with my Mom,” said Chelsea. She’s the one that got me into it.”

Show dates for A Christmas Carol are Nov. 26,27,28, and Dec. 3,4,5, at 7:30 p.m. There will be a 2 p.m. matinee on Nov. 29.