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Humbug for the holidays!

Tacoma's Champion Centre Church retells the holiday favorite story

The enchanting cast of Champion Centre Church’s production, Scrooge the Musical: A Miracle in London Town. Photo credit: Andy Mueller

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Everyone is familiar with the Charles Dickens' holiday classic, A Christmas Carol. The story has inspired countless versions and renditions for decades, ranging from storybook retellings to Hollywood blockbusters starring beloved favorites like Jim Carrey and Gary Oldman. This holiday season, the renowned favorite can be viewed on stage at The Champion Centre Church in Tacoma as a musical production to be enjoyed by the whole family.

Scrooge the Musical: A Miracle in London Town shows 10 times this December, with performances running from the 8th to the 18th, Thursdays through Sundays. Tickets range from $12 to $17, depending on the date and time of the showing. For the hearing impaired, ASL interpreters will be available Friday, Dec. 9.

This December marks season 35 for the church's rendition of the holiday favorite, its first debut having been in 1981. The show continues to wow audiences year after year, with thousands of people attending every December to enjoy the culmination of months of hard work and preparation. Major planning and arrangements begin in August, with the cast and crew shifting into overdrive around Thanksgiving. During this time, the sets are assembled and rehearsals take place every evening. "The real excitement of the holidays begins to set in," said Executive Director of Operations Steve Shackett.

Even individuals who have had the pleasure of seeing Scrooge the Musical before will be in for a special treat this season - "Every year we try to make updates and changes that keep the production relevant, fresh and new. This year we've added some significant changes, including two new songs that we've been working on for the past year," explained Shackett. "We're also adding a pre-production musical number in our lobby before the auditorium doors open and some set changes to Scrooge's bedroom."

The show relies heavily on the help of volunteers for its success - roughly 350 of them, in fact. This year, 103 actors, 25 hair and makeup artists, six costume workers and 40 stagehands contribute to this estimate, comprising the foundation of workers who are instrumental in achieving a wonderfully captivating, two hour and 45 minute show.

Adding to the wow-factor of Champion Centre's production is its original music score and dynamic theatrical aspects. "It's a fun, entertaining and exciting event for the entire family - including a spectacular set, beautiful costumes, dancing and singing, flying angels, live snow falling and special effects," enthused Shackett. "Kids of all ages are sure to enjoy this grand evening of entertainment."

In addition to the captivating production, there will be other fun activities for enjoyment. The Centre encourages families to plan three hours for the entire Scrooge the Musical experience, so that guests can peruse the Christmas store and enjoy a cookie and cup of hot cocoa from the coffee shop prior to the show.

When looking for a lively way to savor the holiday spirit this year, consider the Champion Centre's family-friendly production of Scrooge the Musical. Shackett sums up the experience perfectly: "It's a traditional holiday classic that sets the tone for the Christmas season."

Scrooge the Musical, 7:30 p.m., Thursday-Friday; 1 p.m., 7:30 p.m., Saturday; 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8-18, $12-$17, Champion Centre Church, 1819 E. 72nd St., Tacoma, 253.475.6454, cc.church/page/scrooge

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