"A Christmas Carol" at the Guthrie Theater

The Guthrie Theater is celebrating 50 years of A Christmas Carol* this year, and as a 21-year season subscriber, I have seen 19 of those productions (including the virtual one in 2020). There simply is nothing like it. Charles Dickens' story is one of such hope, such joy, such belief in the idea that it's never too late to change and grow and become a better person, that gratitude, kindness, and generosity are the highest of virtues. After 50 years, the Guthrie's production is a well-oiled machine, guaranteed to deliver the finest entertainment and the best quality production. But in addition to feeling familiar and comfortable, it also feels fresh and new every year, with the addition of new faces or adaptations, and it's filled with so much sincerity and heart that it will melt the Scroogiest of hearts. This is their fourth year using this succinct and faithful adaptation by Lavina Jadhwani, and the absolutely stunning design, with director Addie Gorlin-Han returning from last year's production. So if you haven't seen the Guthrie's Christmas Carol since before the pandemic, you should definitely check out this new version before it closes on December 29. And even seeing it for the fourth time, it's still chock full of delights for the eyes, ears, heart, and soul.

"The Lehman Trilogy" at the Guthrie Theater

All I knew about The Lehman Trilogy before seeing the show (the first in my 21st season as a Guthrie Theater subscriber), was that it was three and a half hours long, but worth it. If you read this blog with any regularity, you know that my favorite thing is a 90-minute-no-intermission show (being a morning person with a theater habit is challenging). But when the story covers over 150 years of US history, multiple generations of a consequential family, and a thorough and unflinching look at capitalism, allowances must be made. The Guthrie has kindly moved showtimes a half hour earlier, and stocked their bars with coffee and other treats to keep you fueled for what is a marathon visit to the theater. It takes a little effort, but you will be rewarded by a beautifully and uniquely written Tony-winning play, fascinating design, and three powerhouse performances. And maybe you'll also start to question the very foundation of our society. So get a good night's sleep, or take an afternoon nap, get some coffee, get comfy, and settle in for a singular night (or afternoon) of theater at the Guthrie, continuing through October 12.

"The Little Prince" at the Guthrie Theater

The 40+ year tradition A Christmas Carol is not the only magic the Guthrie Theater is weaving this month. Across the lobby in the proscenium theater, the new production of the classic children's book The Little Prince is full of theater magic and sheer delight, no matter your age. Despite the fact that this book is, according to Wikipedia, the most translated book next to the Bible, I have never read it, or seen any previous adaptation on film or stage. I can't think of a better introduction to this magical story of loneliness, connection, and exploration than through this truly inventive production. While A Christmas Carol closes soon, The Little Prince continues into the new year, providing an oasis of color and imagination in the darkness of winter (continuing through Feb. 5).