Scrooge and the Ghostly Spirits Reviews
Chicago Reader- Not Recommended
"...The fault isn't all Post’s, though his songs too often fall flat. Scott Phelps's disappointing direction lacks spirit, and his low-energy ensemble often seems to be just going through the motions. Frank Farrell's Scrooge is too gentle and quirky at the beginning of the night to say “Bah Humbug!” and mean it, too subdued at the end to convince us he's now “light as a feather . . . happy as an angel . . . merry as a schoolboy.”"
Around The Town Chicago- Recommended
"...Directed by Scott Phelps, who has proven over and over that he is unafraid of tackling new material and who has learned the limitations of the small stage area in their Lake Forest home. While they have created a clever, multi-purpose set ( (Kristen Martino), there are times that it became a bit cumbersome considering this is a version that takes place in 94 minutes ( no intermission). Citadel has changed their musicals from taped music to live musicians, and while they are limited in space, it is far better for all concerned."
Chicago Theatre Review- Recommended
"...However, for all these criticisms, this is really a truly satisfying holiday vehicle and one that Citadel Theatre might consider as an annual event. It’s fast-paced, yet includes the most familiar plot points and characters from Charles Dickens’ classic. From its fine technical support to a hard-working ensemble, most of whom skillfully play multiple roles, this excellent production of redemption is a welcome new addition to the vast menu of holiday treats to be sampled in Chicagoland."
Chicagoland Musical Theatre- Highly Recommended
"...Music Director Benjamin Nichols (keyboards) and the other two members of his impeccable onstage trio (Lena Gaetz on violin and Jessica Bieniarz on cello) do a great job with Post’s score, and there’s no doubt that the upbeat ensemble song and dance numbers like “Festivities at Fezziwigs,” “Cornucopia” and “On Christmas Day” are highlights."
Chicago Theater and Arts- Recommended
"...Post’s all-new musical score pays homage to 19th Century English songs in a highly theatrical way. Post says, “The first song that came to me, and it practically wrote itself, is called ‘Mankind Was My Business.’ It’s Jacob Marley’s lament to Scrooge that in life, Marley neglected his “business” of concern for others.”"
Chicago On Stage- Recommended
"...In all, I’m not convinced that the world needed another version of A Christmas Carol, but this one is still a worthy addition to the mix and well worth the trip to Lake Forest to see."