‘A Christmas Carol’: Jefferson Mays shines

‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’: Jefferson Mays. Photo: A Christmas Carol Live.

CHARLES DICKENS’ A CHRISTMAS CAROL
Written by Michael Arden, Susan Lyons, Jefferson Mays
Production conceived by Michael Arden & Dane Laffrey
Directed by Michael Arden
Through January 1, 2023
Nederlander Theatre
208 West 41st Street
(212-239-6200), www.AChristmasCarolLive.com

By David NouNou

Jefferson Mays dons many hats in this adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. He not only took part in writing this play, but is also the narrator, actor and definitely the star of this piece.

As narrator, Mr. Mays gives us the insight and history of Ebenezer Scrooge. As actor he portrays: Scrooge, Marley, his partner in business, Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future, as well as Mr. and Mrs. Fezziwig, Mr. and Mrs. Bob Cratchit and all the Cratchit children.

When attending this production, a viewer will not experience the usual miser turned altruist but will experience a standout bravura performance by Jefferson Mays. Mr. Mays is indefatigable. Anyone familiar with Mr. Mays’ body of work will recall his brilliant one-man Tony Award-winning performance in I Am My Own Wife. He consistently delivers unforgettable performances.

To make this performance stand out as an event is Michael Arden’s fine-tuned direction because every expression and movement has to count. To heighten the drama, the proceedings are further abetted by Dane Laffrey’s constant sets in motion and Ben Stanton’s eerie lighting.

This is not the typical movie or TV extravaganza of Dickens’ classic holiday tale, but a showcase for Mr. Mays’ infinite talents.

Edited by Scott Harrah
Published December 2, 2022
Reviewed at December 1, 2022  press performance.

‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’: Jefferson Mays. Photo: A Christmas Carol Live.

‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’: Jefferson Mays. Photo: A Christmas Carol Live.

‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’: Jefferson Mays. Photo: A Christmas Carol Live.