In the Words of Ebenezer Scrooge

A Christmas Carol resides in the pantheons of both the greatest redemption and greatest ghost stories ever told. In this tale, we see ourselves reflected in each colorful character. We are, all of us, sometimes a Scrooge, sometimes a Fred; often the plainspoken Mrs. Crachit or diligent Bob. We have all been vulnerable as Tim, as generous as Fezziwig (I hope) and clear-eyed as Belle, painful as it may be.

It’s important for people to hear the message of A Christmas Carol Reimagined because it is a testimony to redemption and forgiveness, charity and kindness. It shines a light on the fact it is never too late to change one’s path and is a reminder not to cast an eye down, but instead to reach a hand out to the less fortunate.

As we pass through our own brief lives, this tale reminds us that we are, I believe, here to experience the human condition and that our words and deeds have the power to render ourselves and others “happy or unhappy, to make our service light or burdensome, a pleasure or a toil.” Goodness begets goodness, and darkness the same. Be a beacon of great light to others and it will be reflected back tenfold.

The unifying spirit of Christmas time is singular. I love how the unifying spirit of Christmas time is expressed as singular in this story. To quote Scrooge’s nephew Fred, it is “the only time I know of, in the long calendar of the year, when men and women seem by one consent to open their shut-up hearts freely and to think of people below them as if they really were fellow-passengers to the grave, and not another race of creatures bound on other journeys.”

I’m grateful for the opportunity to work, especially with my heart, my wife Annie, and so many friends. To be doing so in this iconic role in my hometown is a dream. I feel lucky and blessed to be a part of this company.

- Steve Gagliastro

Steve Gagliastro as Ebenezer Scrooge. Michael Gerulaitis Photography.