Little Theatre of Alexandria brings fresh take on Dickens classic to the stage
Director's 'Princess Bride'-inspired concept reimagines the holiday ghost story through a child's imagination as the community theater tradition continues
The Little Theatre of Alexandria opened its annual production of “A Christmas Carol” to a sold-out house Friday night, continuing a tradition that has delighted audiences for nearly a quarter-century.
This year’s production, directed by Michael Page, reimagines the classic Dickens tale through the eyes of a modern-day preteen artist. As her visiting grandfather reads her the story, she sketches the scenes, bringing them to life on stage in a concept Page says was inspired by “The Princess Bride” and the visual aesthetic of director Tim Burton.
The Burton influence is unmistakable. Set designer Kathy Murphy crafted a stylized Victorian London with angular rooftops and a crooked clock tower, all bathed in moody washes of teal and crimson light. It’s a storybook world filtered through a child’s sketchpad — whimsical, slightly off-kilter, and unmistakably handmade. The aesthetic extends to the performances as well: Mikaela Fenn’s Ghost of Christmas Present moves with eerie, robotic precision, evoking the stop-motion dolls of a Burton animation.
“The interaction between generations emphasizes the themes of family and how traditions are altered through time,” Page wrote in the director’s notes of the show program. The production is dedicated to “all young artists who desire to share their perspective with the world.”
The cast features Brian Lyons-Burke reprising the role of Ebenezer Scrooge, alongside Peter Fannon as the grandfather, and two rotating children’s casts performing through Dec. 20.
The show runs approximately 90 minutes without intermission, making it accessible for families — though the theater notes that, as Dickens himself titled it, this is a ghost story with elements that may frighten very young children.
Tickets are moving quickly. The closing weekend shows on Dec. 20 are already sold out, as is the Dec. 13 matinee. Performances run Wednesdays through Fridays at 8 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 2 and 5 p.m. Tickets are $25 for reserved seating.
Community theater offers audiences something no streaming service can replicate: the energy of live performance, the talent of neighbors and friends, and the chance to support local arts. Whether this particular adaptation resonates with every viewer may vary, but the commitment and creativity on display at LTA are undeniable.
For those looking to embrace the holiday spirit while supporting the arts, “A Christmas Carol” at LTA or any local community theater is worth the trip.
Tickets are available at thelittletheatre.com or by calling 703-683-0496. The Little Theatre of Alexandria is located at 600 Wolfe St.