By Karla Kelly

FOR THE DIGBY COURIER

NovaNewsNow.com



The never-ending story of the unselfish spirit of the Christmas season came to life again Dec. 20-21 in the community theatre at Digby Regional High School.

Digby Area Theatre Society¹s production of ‘A Christmas Carol’ dramatizes Ebenezer Scrooge¹s personal evaluation and transformation after having been visited on Christmas Eve by ghosts representing his past, present and future.

The classic tale by Charles Dickens was adapted for the stage by local playwright and director Hal Theriault and offered the audience an opportunity to reflect on some of the deeper themes of Christmas: kindness,sharing, caring, understanding and most importantly, love.

“With a cast of nearly 50, ranging in age from 7 to 70, and a production crew of over 20, this theater society version was a huge community effort,” said Theriault.

Theriault added that the actors and crew faced several challenges including work schedules and a short time frame to rehearse.

“The cast and crew were an extraordinary and wonderful group of people to work with,” said Theriault. “They pulled together by helping each other out in the short time afforded us to prepare for such a big production.”

Brian Isles was outstanding in his portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge. Throughout the play the audience could feel the depths of Scrooge’s despair and his final exhilaration of his redemption.

“The final moments in the play were the most demanding energy wise,” said Isles. “I had to dance, act giddy and speak excitedly, all at the same time.”

A standing ovation by the audience and it was apparent they had enjoyed the opportunity to put aside the hustle and bustle for a time and share in the wonderful story of Scrooge’s redemption.