Unity Dance Troupe to present ‘Scrooge’ adaption
Photo courtesy of Unity Dance
Unity Dance Troupe has annually performed “Scrooge” based on Charles Dickens’ novel “A Christmas Carol” for three years but tweaked the show this year, creating a unique experience for attendees. Unity has adapted “Scrooge” into a Broadway-style production featuring original musical compositions, live instrumentals, dance and acting.
Sydney Gobble, a junior instrumental music education major, has enjoyed seeing the show come together throughout her years at Unity.
“This is our third year doing ‘Scrooge,’ and the show has definitely evolved over the years, but the community within the company has gotten strong, and we all want to do our best for each other. We come to rehearsals prepared to do dances or scenes we haven’t done in weeks, and it looks so fresh on everyone’s minds,” said Gobble.
Senior music major Darian Barrett plays Bob Cratchit in the performance. Barrett has held this role for three years during his time participating at Unity. He joined the team in early 2018 and has recently started working for the center.
“I believe the hardest part has been tapping into emotions,” said Barrett. “ I’ve lost a grandmother, but I’ve never lost a child. So, having to feel that emotion and showing that accurately without having ever experienced it has been very difficult.”
Barrett said Unity has adapted the play to portray more biblical meaning. The three ghosts visiting Scrooge are presented as the Holy Trinity. Barrett and his fellow cast members were surprised by the various biblical themes presented throughout the show.
“Christmas Past, played by Unity Touring Artist Kara Sutherland, embodies the beauty and strength of ballet and classical pointe. Christmas Present, played by professional actor and Unity Touring Guest Artist Kyle Gazak, opens Scrooge’s eyes to the goodness available to him through the joy and wonder of Christmas. Christmas Future, played by Principal Unity Touring Artist Alexis Ziarkowski Burleson, forces Scrooge to face his trajectory to find healing from a life filled with bitterness,” Unity announced via press release.
Unity’s chief financial officer Katherine Zaffee said Unity always pushes to have deeper themes incorporated in their productions. Zaffee has worked with Unity for several years as a performer and musician and will perform as a violinist during the production of Scrooge.
“All of Unity’s productions strive to hold a deeper message or meaning,” said Zaffee. “Our desire is for people to come, not only to get excited for Christmas but to just be encouraged that no matter where they are in life — if everything’s great and jolly, or if they honestly feel a little bit like Scrooge and a little bit humbug — that there is always hope. And, there’s always a way to make your way back to truth and to wholeness.”
Tickets will be available online at www.unitydancetroupe.com/tickets. Performances will be taking place on Dec. 9, 8 and 12. Thursday through Saturday showtimes are at 7 p.m, and Sunday showtime is 3 p.m. All performances will take place at Westmore Church of God.
