Clownshow presents CHARLES DICKENS BEGRUDGINGLY PERFORMS A Christmas Carol Again.
He’s back! Charles Dickens AKA Blake Montgomery returns to the stage for the holidays. Montgomery, creator and performer, imagines the literary genius manifested and forced to narrate his Christmas classic. The delightful irony is despite ‘Dickens’ protests about performing this show for 171 consecutive years, Chicago hasn’t seen Montgomery in this role for awhile. Now, a decade after The Building Stage went dark, Montgomery takes the stage to captivate with his Jeff Award-winning solo performance. The Ghost of The Building Stage Past resurrects this one man yuletide tour de force.
Montgomery charms as he greets audience members with candy canes. He is the consummate host as he ushers guests to their seats while sharing personal tidbits about his other books. Montgomery’s witty interactions feel organic as he asks questions and responds with humorous one liners. The vibe is more festive party than traditional oration.
When Montgomery tries to shift officially into a soiree, theatrical spirits coerce him to once again recite “A Christmas Carol.” Although ‘Dickens’ resents being typecast, fortunately for the audience, he acquiesces. He shifts into narrator and gives voice to Scrooge, Marley & company. Montgomery is a superb storyteller! His rendition of the familiar tale is the perfect balance of dramatic and playful. He brings true humanity to the character of Ebenezer. Montgomery transforms again and again as he begins to understand the missing aspects of a life unrealized.
CHARLES DICKENS BEGRUDGINGLY is an innovative take on a holiday ritual. It’s an opportunity to rediscover comfort and joy this December. I highly recommend the gift of Blake Montgomery this season.
Running Time: One hour and forty minutes with no intermission
At The Den Theatre, 1331 N. Milwaukee
Created and performed by Blake Montgomery
Performances are:
Thursdays through Saturdays at 8pm
Sundays at 7pm
Thru December 22
For more information or tickets
Production photos by Joe Mazza
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