The Old Sinner | Andy Harvey stars as Scrooge in “A Christmas Carol”

It wouldn’t be Christmas without a production of A Christmas Carol playing somewhere in St. Louis. Dickens’ timeless tale warms the heart and teaches us to do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

The Nebraska Theatre Caravan continues their tradition of bringing this story to life as they make their return to the Fabulous Fox Theatre December 14th – 17th. Andy Harvey, who plays the iconic role of Ebenezer Scrooge, took time to answer a few quick questions about the Nebraska Theatre Caravan and this production.

Jim Ryan: How long have you been an actor?

Andy Harvey: I started performing in 2007 when I was twenty years old, at Liberty University.

How long have you been performing with the Nebraska Theatre Caravan?

This is my fifth time with the Caravan in six years. I played Jacob Marley previously and this is my second time playing Scrooge.

What does it mean to you as an actor to be part of people’s Christmas tradition?

It’s an honor to be a part of Christmas for so many people across the country! Christmas is one of my favorite times of year, and it’s marvelous to be able to share it with so many people.

Scrooge is one of the most transformative characters in theatre. How do you mentally prepare for this role?

Putting on the makeup and the costume is enough mental preparation for the character to be there. I look in the mirror, I see Ebenezer. I sit at my desk in the first scene, and I feel like Ebenezer.

Do you have a favorite scene in this production?

I really love the scene where I am swept into my past and forced to see my young self filled with the joy of Christmas. It’s very effective. Imagining looking at a young you is quite chilling and yet intriguing.

Considering recent events do you think this year’s production of A Christmas Carol will have a special meaning to the audience this year?

I do, I think that we as a country and as a world are being confronted daily with what it means to be selfless and think of others as you think of yourself. Scrooge is the quintessential self-serving, self-preserving character in literary fiction. If he can be shown a way of redemption, can we not, as individuals, examine ourselves?

What is the most rewarding part of playing the role of Scrooge?

Any actor worth his salt wants a crack at portraying “The Old Sinner.” There are very few character arcs as well written as Dickens’ curmudgeon.

Why do you think this tale is still so relevant today? What do you think is the reason people come to see it so often?

This story was as relevant when it was written as it is today. It will never go out of style and it will never wax old. As long as there is mankind, there will be individuals who abuse their power and choose evil as opposed to good. This story is a reminder, Scrooge serves as a picture of the impact of evil, but the capacity for good. │Jim Ryan

A Christmas Carol runs for six performances at The Fabulous Fox Theatre December 14th -17th. For show times and ticket prices, please visit www.fabulousfox.com.

 

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