Engeman’s “A Christmas Carol: The Musical” Receives a Well-Deserved Standing Ovation

This must-see holiday treat runs through December 28, 2025.

Cindi Sansone-Braff - THE PATCH

The John W. Engeman Theater presents a holiday hit: “A Christmas Carol: The Musical.” This enchanting, entertaining, and thoroughly engaging adaptation of Charles Dickens’ beloved novella offers a fresh take on a timeless classic. What makes this musical extravaganza such an exceptionally visceral theatrical experience is outstanding direction, world-class performers, a pitch-perfect live orchestra, showstopping choreography, stunning period costumes, spectacular lighting and special effects, and the magnificent Victorian-era set design.

This popular Christmas musical was an annual holiday tradition at the Theatre at Madison Square Garden from December 1994 through December 2003. With music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, and book by Mike Ockrent and Lynn Ahrens, this well-designed stage adaptation closely follows Dickens’ carefully crafted story, and the memorable musical numbers add nuance and depth to each scene.

The well-known story centers on Ebenezer Scrooge, a greedy businessman who undergoes a mystical awakening on Christmas Eve after being visited by four ghosts. The first specter who haunts Scrooge is Jacob Marley, his former partner, who warns him that three spirits—the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future—will visit him to help save his immortal soul.

Under the astute direction of Drew Humphrey, the entire cast delivered their A-game. Revered Broadway actor James Judy showcased his impressive vocal and acting talents in his award-worthy performance as the bah-humbugging curmudgeon Scrooge. Watching Judy’s whole demeanor change with each ghostly visitation was worth the price of admission. 

Kent M. Lewis was horrifyingly unforgettable as the remorseful ghost of his business partner, Jacob Marley. Lewis revealed his stellar vocals during the catchy, yet somber and spooky, song “Link by Link,” a big production number featuring a host of tap-dancing ghosts.

Adrianne Hick, dressed in a glittery, light-up gown, graced the stage as The Ghost of Christmas Past, delivering a beautiful version of the bittersweet ballad “The Lights of Long Ago.” Tyler Price Robinson gave an outstanding performance as the darkly comedic Ghost of Christmas Present. Robinson’s powerful vocals rocked the joyful, celebratory “Abundance and Charity,” accompanied by the effervescent Ensemble, expertly executing Elise Kinnon’s high-energy, upbeat choreography. Cáitlín Burke’s solemn Ghost of Christmas Future was the most terrifying apparition of all as she stood ominously watching the probable dark future outcomes that lie ahead should Scrooge not change his greedy and selfish ways.

Other standout performances included Cody Gerszewski as Bob Cratchit and Lily Grubert as Mrs. Cratchit. Some much-needed comedic relief was provided by Mr. and Mrs. Fezziwig, skillfully portrayed by Jefferson Behan and Cáitlín Burke. The festive show tune, “Fezziwig’s Annual Christmas Ball,” was one of the show’s highlights, where Burke amazed the audience with her soaring vocal range.

A special shout-out goes to the Child Ensemble, who alternate their roles, including Max Deluca, Matthew Eby, Brian Hartman, Karlie Jane Hartmann, Kayla Kennedy, Emily Kim, Paige Mathers, Sadie Mathers, Elliot Torbenson, and Britton Travaglianti. Tyler Maxwell Renaud and Blair Travaglianti share the iconic role of Tiny Tim. During the performance I saw, Blair Travaglianti aced the role of Bob Cratchit’s frail but loving, always optimistic young son. 

The rest of the multi-talented adult ensemble includes Jefferson Behan, Robbie Beirne, Marisa Budnik, Tristan Caldwell, Lani Corson, Travis Flynt, Lily Grubert, Chafik Jay, Cynthia Kauffman, Anna Orbison, Jake Tomé Rotz, and Henrique Sobrinho. The Swings are Miranda Jo DeMott, Olivia Giorgio, Terrence Bryce Sheldon, and Henrique Sobrinho.

The top-tier Creative Team, Jacob Stebly (Musical Director), Kyle Dixon (Scenic Design), Dustin Cross (Costume Design), José Santiago (Lighting Design), Laura Shubert (Sound Design), Megan Cohen (Props Design), and Jeff Knaggs (Wig and Makeup Design), all worked together to make this show a smash success.