Patrick Stewart’s Christmas Carol is Jackanory for grown-ups and though it would probably work better in more intimate surroundings - with a log fire and glass of mulled wine, perhaps - he pulls the enterprise off pretty well.
Dickens himself undertook extensive reading tours and this retelling very much returns to the roots of the Victorian writer. The new Tory leader this week attempted to banish the ghost of Conservatism past by affirming that there is such a thing as society. He didn’t present a poor crippled boy on crutches with the biggest goose from the butcher’s shop - but probably would given the chance.
Dickens’ Scrooge is given the chance of redemption in his journey from individualistic pecuniary advancement to champion of social equality. Stewart brings the author’s focus on the disparity between rich and poor into sharp relief and succeeds commendably in evoking the culinary delights of the Cratchett’s dining table on Christmas Day.
Served with a fantastic story by a popular writer, Stewart nonetheless still manages to achieve the tricky feat of sustaining audience interest for two hours on a blank, black stage with minimal props. With nuances of acting ability and intonation of voice, he fills in those blanks and provides a diverting Christmas treat, greatly assisted by Fred Allen’s lighting.
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