Story by Laura Smearer Gonyaw
We arrived at the cozy Underground Annex Theater to see “Carol’s Christmas” and were greeted by a smiling gentleman who provided refreshments prior to and after the performance. We sat ourselves in the rows of seats in a L-shape around the stage.
An improv orphanage scene had children cavorting, teasing and playing with each other as well as interacting with the audience. We made ourselves comfortable for A Christmas Carol remake with a Queen portraying the lead “Scrooge” using the name of Carol. The sparkling and energetic narrator entered and told the story throughout the play.He was spot on and set each scene up with an explanation. Carol (Andy Libby), the lead character and drag Diva, was animated and expressive. Her dialogue kept the play moving along at a good pace being humorous, poignant, fresh and topical. Small moments throughout the play there was a “honking” that occurred when Carol was asleep and dreaming that was especially chuckle-inducing.
The past angry ghost, present Gucci ghost, and future death ghosts were to the point with dialogue, music, and humor. Besides the on pointe lead, there were two cast members that truly shined—actress Isabella stole every scene she was in, and Tequila Mockingbird was a presence with show-stopping performances.
A good time was had by all!
“Carol’s Christmas” plays Saturday, December 14, 2019, at 8 p.m., and plays until January 4, 2020 at the Underground Annex Theater 1308 N. Wilton Pl.Hollywood, CA- 90028 – 323-327-6492. Tickets can be purchased at Brown Paper Tickets.
Disclosure: Tequila Mockingbird, Art Editor of The LA Beat, performs in this play.
