Patrons to learn about Scrooge in Mansfield Playhouse production 'A Christmas Carol'

Mark Caudill, Mansfield News Journal
Updated ·2 min read

Doug Wertz always takes on extra work for Mansfield Playhouse productions.

This year's Christmas show is especially challenging for the artistic director. He has been a bit under the weather, which has affected his voice.

That's not ideal timing considering he's playing Scrooge in "A Christmas Carol."

The Mansfield Playhouse production of "A Christmas Carol," opening this weekend, is a fresh take on an old tale with some surprises.
The Mansfield Playhouse production of "A Christmas Carol," opening this weekend, is a fresh take on an old tale with some surprises.

"'Tis the season," Wertz joked about people being sick at this time of year.

He plans to be in full voice for the Playhouse's final show of the calendar year.

In this fresh, fun and lively adaptation of "A Christmas Carol," patrons will meet Mr. Bentley, learn about the letters Scrooge wrote to his sister Fan, and find out who Mr. Newbury is.

You’ll still find all the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future along with Tiny Tim, Bob Cratchit, the Ghost of Jacob Marley, Old Fezziwig, Scrooge’s nephew Fred and the love of Scrooge’s life, Belle.

There are some new scary bits, a few good laughs, a tender moment or two and some surprises. It’s a fresh take on an old tale.

The Mansfield Playhouse production of "A Christmas Carol" features all the favorite charactors including Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim, as well as all the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future.
The Mansfield Playhouse production of "A Christmas Carol" features all the favorite charactors including Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim, as well as all the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future.

"It's a little more embellished with some new characters," Wertz said of this version of the classic story. "There are more tidbits in the backstory of Scrooge and who he is."

Wertz relishes the role.

"I really enjoy the character because you get to see the transition. Scrooge is really a complex character," he said. "It's most rewarding to make this person into someone you can potentially love."

There are more than 20 actors in the cast, with several of them playing multiple roles.

Wertz said "A Christmas Carol" is good for all ages.

"There are lessons to be learned and still be entertained in the process," he said.

mcaudill@gannett.com

419-521-7219

X (formerly Twitter): @MarkCau32059251

If you go

What: "A Christmas Carol"

Where: Mansfield Playhouse, 95 E. Third St.

When: 7 p.m. Dec. 8, 9, 15 and 16; 2:30 p.m. Dec. 17

Tickets: $13 for adults, $12 for seniors, $8 for students

More information: Call 419-522-2883 or visit mansfieldplayhouse.com. The box office is open from 1-6 p.m. Wednesday-Friday and one hour before shows.

This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: Mansfield Playhouse offering 'A Christmas Carol' for holiday season