REVIEW: Town Theatre’s A CHRISTMAS CAROL: THE MUSICAL Shines! By Jane Turner Peterson

 

Don’t wait another minute—head to Town Theatre’s website or pick up the phone now! Tickets will go fast for this dazzling production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol the Musical, and you do NOT want to miss it. This spectacular musical, directed by veteran Jerry Crouch, is guaranteed to fill you with holiday cheer from the moment the curtain rises. With masterful choreography by Christy Shealy Mills and gorgeous vocals shaped by music director Kathy Seppamaki, this show is easily one of the standouts of 2025. 

Featuring music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, and a book by Mike Ockrent and Ahrens, this adaptation remains one of the most beloved versions of Dickens’ classic—and Town Theatre’s massive, talented cast brings every note and moment to life with heart and precision. 

We follow Ebenezer Scrooge on his iconic Christmas Eve journey as the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future visit him. Each encounter is beautifully realized, reminding us all of the timeless power of reflection, redemption, and the true meaning of Christmas. 

With a cast of more than 50 adult, teen, and child performers, this production is nothing short of impressive. Crouch’s direction is seamless, moving the company through polished scenes and picture-perfect vignettes. The multi-level set is both stunning and functional, transitions are smooth and choreographed, and the use of the trapdoor (a fan favorite!) adds a delightful theatrical flair. The period costumes are exquisite, adding authenticity and charm to every scene. 

The dance numbers alone are worth the price of admission. “Link by Link” and “Dancing on Your Grave” light up the stage with thrilling choreography and ensemble work, while “Mr. Fezziwig’s Annual Christmas Ball” bursts with joy and energy. Christy Shealy Mills—with some help from her daughter Zanna Mills—delivers showstopping choreography that elevates these big dance moments into true highlights of the night. 

Tracy Steele delivers a brilliant performance as Ebenezer Scrooge, effortlessly capturing every comedic beat and emotional turn. His vocals shine, his presence commands the stage, and his transformation is deeply satisfying to watch. Additional standout performances include Jerimy Woodall as Marley, Zanna Mills as the luminous Ghost of Christmas Past, Gavin Slaughter as the exuberant Ghost of Christmas Present, and Ashton Boland as the chilling Ghost of Christmas Future. And don’t miss Gina Saviola’s delightful moments as Mrs. Mops! 

This is the holiday production to see this season. A Christmas Carol runs December 5–21. Tickets are available by phone at 803.799.2510, online at towntheatre.com, or in person at the theatre from noon to 5 p.m., Tuesday–Friday, at 1012 Sumter Street in downtown Columbia. 

Make it part of your family’s holiday tradition—get your tickets today!

Backstage: A New Musical Revue at Town Theatre, August 19

The Ensemble (Jennifer Davis, John Dixon, Jalil Bonds, Emily Clelland, Lisa Akly, Rachel Rizzutti, Nate Stern, and Samantha Livoti) eagerly read a review of their new show. Photo credit: Rebecca Seezen and Jimmy Wall  

The theme is familiar — an aging actress threatened by youth — but we’re giving it a fresh, new spin! BACKSTAGE will bring it all together through shared stories of a group of performers who frequent a bar constructed on the stage of a closed theater. Don’t miss an all star line up of Town veterans, including Dell Goodrich (Stand By Your Man), Mary Joy Williams (Nice Work If You Can Get It), Megan Douthitt (Mary Poppins), Corey Langley (The Addams Family), Bill LaLima (Les Mis), Bob Blencowe (Stand By Your Man), Allison Allgood (Sugar), Samantha Livoti (Singin’ in the Rain), Kathy Hartzog (The Honky Tonk Angels), Nate Stern (The Addams Family), Rebecca Seezen (Spamalot),  as well as a number of talented newcomers including Robin Saviola and Rachel Rizzutti (both seen in Village Square's 9 to 5)! Enjoy a “behind the scenes” look at show business through the songs of Applause (All About Eve), Curtains, Grey Gardens, The Act, The Magic Show, Seesaw, A Class Act, Me and Juliet, Barnum, Little Me and Mack & Mabel.

Production Assistant Eve (Mary Joy Williams) sees the Broadway Star (Dell Goodrich) that she can be someday in the mirror. Photo credit: Rebecca Seezen and Jimmy Wall

BACKSTAGE is written, directed, and choreographed by Charlie Goodrich with musical direction by Kathy Seppamaki (both recently seen in Nice Work If You Can Get It). BACKSTAGE is being presented as a part of Town Theatre’s commitment to emerging artists.

Come early for a complementary wine reception starting at 7:15 PM. Tickets are $10 general admission and may be purchased online at towntheatre.com or by calling the box office at (803) 799-2510.

Reminder: Nominations for Jasper Artists of the Year are due August 26th! More info here,