A Very Neo-Futurist Christmas Carol
The Neo-Futurists have developed quite a reputation in these parts, what with their signature show, "Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind," now in its 20th year. So it was with no little expectations - one might even say, apologies to Dickens, great expectations - that I signed on to see their take on "A Christmas Carol."
Titled "A Very Neo-Futurist Christmas Carol, the show bills itself as "...a twisted journey of Dickens’ famous tale. Hosted by the Grim Reaper, it’s equal parts deconstruction of the classic story, new and political takes on the original, and gripping personal tales relating to Tim, Scrooge, and the whole Carol crew."
And in fact, the proceedings start well in the anteroom, with its Christmassy atmosphere, carolers singing new takes on some old saws and the Grim Reaper telling the waiting audience where to go. But once inside the theater, things deteriorate rapidly. To say I was disappointed is to put it mildly.
Despite a fair amount of energy spent singing, dancing and clowning, the show is at best a very pale parody, something without a quarter of the soul of the story it supposedly takes off from.
To be fair, I will say near the top that the audience I saw it with seemed amused enough. And, yes, there are some funny moments. And at least one good line: "I was born when I met you, now I’m dying to forget you." I can also say that there is undeniable talent among the half-dozen cast members.
But it’s not enough to save the day because mostly this show is a rambling shamble of half-baked, sophomoric, self-indulgent, not-very-funny bits. Kristie K. Vuocolo who conceived AVN-FCC, says, "Scrooge is forced to re-examine his life through experiences which make him laugh, weep and think. Audiences feel the call to action through this personal, political and abstract maze of a story."
I think we can agree completely on this last point. The show is indeed an "abstract maze of a story," a maze that goes nowhere. For me "A Very Neo-Futurist Christmas Carol" plays like a show thought up yesterday afternoon, rehearsed twice and performed by a group of neighborhood kids working out of their parents’ garage. Does that sound harsh? So be it.
In case he was worried, Dickens can roll over and go back to sleep. This production is completely forgettable. Just because they are cute kids, all vocal and precocious, doesn’t mean they have a show that sings.
"A Very Neo-Futurist Christmas Carol" plays Thursdays-Sundays (except Thanksgiving) through Dec. 23 at 5153 N. Ashland. Additional evening shows on Dec. 16, 17, 22 &23 and additional Sunday matinees on Nov. 30 and Dec. 21. Tickets are $15 ($10 for seniors and students) For tickets: 773-275-5255. Or www.neofuturists.org
