Whether you observe National Buy Nothing Day or not, take a break this weekend to do some early holiday theatergoing.
A Christmas Carol at the Geary Theater
If you find yourself in the same tax bracket as, say, Tiny Tim, then this weekend is your chance to see American Conservatory Theater's A Christmas Carol, when preview prices start at $18. Starting December 2, you have to pony up at least $25. So, what's so great about yet another production of Charles Dickens's feel-good tale of redemption? Well, after 29 years, ACT presents a brand-new adaptation, written by artistic director Carey Perloff and former ACT dramaturg Paul Walsh, who penned an excellent translation of A Doll's House last season. What's more, the production also features a new set, a new score and songs and even a new Scrooge this year, Giles Havergal. (Read more about the design and production in Perloff's blog.) But theater geeks like us are most curious about this new adaptation, which apparently dispenses with the usual narrative, linear structure in favor of a more dreamlike, magical one. Let's hope this production is no bah, humbug and good enough to keep seeing for the next 29 years.
Playing November 26-December 24
Black Nativity at Lorraine Hansberry Theatre
Kicking off its 25th season, Lorraine Hansberry Theatre presents its annual, soulful Black Nativity, inspired by Langston Hughes's musical gospel play. Musical director and principal artist Robin Hodge-Williams leads an excellent cast of gospel singers, including Faye Carol, through new songs and old. Now, this isn't sit down, shut up, turn your cell phones off and unwrap your hard candies in advance kind of theater. Because you probably wouldn't be able to hear your cell phones anyway (but, you know, turn them off just in case). This "uh, huh, sing it!" performance has music so powerful you'll be up and dancing in the aisles, no matter what your cultural or religious persuasion. W hit a performance a couple of seasons back, and really, it was a blast.
Playing November 25-December 24
Beach Blanket Babylon at Club Fugazi
It's safe to come out now: Prince Charles and his new bride Camilla have already taken in this San Francisco institution, though her hats probably could have given anything on stage a run for the money. Anyway, we know, we know, like Alcatraz, Beach Blanket is one of the tourist attractions locals never get around to seeing. Well, you have to see it at least once. Or twice, because you have to catch the holiday show as well. Yes, Snow White is still searching for her Prince Charming, but through New Year's Eve she stumbles upon tap-dancing Christmas Trees, Mr. Peanut as the Nutcracker and a parody after parody of traditional Christmas songs. And, natch, the usual pop culture characters and crazy giant hats. Beach Blanket is one of your best bets as far as alternative holiday shows, and if you're hard up for New Year's Eve plans, they’ve got a special 10:15 show.
Playing through December 31.
Photo: John Leech's "Ignorance and Want" from A Christmas Carol is in the public domain. Thanks, Wikipedia.
For more stage options, check out the listings at the Guardian, the Express, the SF Weekly, and the calendar on Theatre Bay Area's website.
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