REVIEW: John Kevin Jones imbues ‘Christmas Carol’ with authenticity
Photo: John Kevin Jones co-adapted and stars in A Christmas Carol at the Merchant’s House Museum. Photo courtesy of PR rep / Provided with permission.
NEW YORK — John Kevin Jones and the Merchant’s House Museum have crafted a thrilling evening of storytelling in their annual recitation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. The sold-out affair, which continues through Dec. 29, is a 75-minute retelling of the most famous Christmas story of all time, and by utilizing Jones’ talents as a dramatist, the audience is truly able to experience the tale as it was meant to be.
Jones uses an adaptation based on Dickens’ own recitation of the story. Apparently the writer visited New York City in the 19th century on a speaking tour, and it is this text that influences the Merchant’s House Museum version.
The authenticity of the performance is first achieved by the posh environs. The museum is a preserved house, furniture intact, that dates back to 1832. The play itself takes place up a flight of stairs in the Greek Revival double parlor, with patrons sitting close to the small performance space, decked out with a Christmas tree. A similar appreciation for the historical surroundings is achieved by Irish Repertory Theatre’s annual holiday production, The Dead, 1904, at the American Irish Historical Society’s townhouse.
Jones takes the stage, opens a copy of the novella and begins to read before an audience of approximately 74. Soon enough, he places the book to the side and recites the well-known tale by heart, adding in plenty of interesting voices for each and every character. All of the memorable ones are accounted for, including Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Marley’s Ghost and Tiny Tim.
The actor, wearing a period tuxedo, imbues his performance with high energy and a powerful voice. He finds the horror elements in the ghost story, but also the sweetness of the postcard images Dickens paints with descriptive language. As Scrooge realizes the error of his evil ways, there is also a tenderness struck with Jones’ pacing and pausing. The actor is even able to find the comedic elements in Dickens’ words, with much of the humor coming from the customs of the day, the traditions of the holiday and the eventual joy that is felt by everyone.
There are similarities between Jones’ show and Jonathan Kruk’s one-man retelling of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow at the Old Dutch Church in Sleepy Hollow, New York, every October. Authenticity is key to both performances, and the location only helps the actors achieve their respective goals.
At the conclusion of a recent performance, Jones reported that all remaining tickets for the 2018 run of shows are sold out; however, he and this iconic text will be back in 2019. That’s a Christmas gift.
By John Soltes / Publisher / John@HollywoodSoapbox.com
John Kevin Jones stars in A Christmas Carol, based on Charles Dickens’ novella and directed by Dr. Rhonda Dodd. Presented by Summoners Ensemble Theatre at the Merchant’s House Museum on East 4th Street in New York City. Click here for more information and tickets.
Read Hollywood Soapbox’s interview with John Kevin Jones here.
