Theatreworks/NYC's A Christmas Carol Runs Dec. 10-31

Based on the Dickens classic, A Christmas Carol , with book by David Armstrong, lyrics by Mark Waldrop and music by Dick Gallagher, "captures the holiday spirit with Scrooge, Tiny Tim, Bob Cratchit and all the rest," state press notes.  The 90-minute musical, complete with live musicians, is recommended for audiences age 5 and up.  A Christmas Carol features new sets and costumes and includes more music and more characters than previous Theatreworks productions of the show.  "This is Manhattan's only professional production of this holiday classic."

The show features Kevin Del Aguila (bookwriter for Off-Broadway's Altar Boyz), Stewart Gregory, Christopher Guilmet, Miles Kath, Herndon Lackey (Broadway's Parade, Inherit the Wind, Kiss of the Spider Woman), Meghan McGreary, Margaret Nichols and Tom Plotkin (Broadway's Seussical, Footloose, Triumph of Love)

The production is directed and choreographed by David Armstrong. Scenic design is by James Wolk, with costumes by Gregory A Poplyk, lights by Jeff Croiter, and sound by Eric Shim.  Musical direction is by Rick Hip-Flores and orchestrations are by Greg Pliska.

Theatreworks/USA, "America's foremost not-for-profit professional theatre for family audiences," announced in April the establishment of Theaterworks/NYC giving the company a theatrical home in New York City for the first time in its 45-year history.  Theatreworks/NYC is presenting four major shows in the 2005-2006 season at the Lortel, plus a special series for the youngest audiences-of music, puppets, magic, and more. 

Theatreworks/USA "continues to bring its award-winning shows to audiences across America, reaching four million people a year, many of whom have no other access to live, professional theatre.   Since its inception in 1961, Theatreworks has entertained 80 million children and families."

Performances of A Christmas Carol are Tuesdays through Sunday.  Tickets are $35 each, or $25 each for a group of four or more.  (Patrons can order four Mainstage tickets in any combination throughout the rest of the season and receive this discount, such as four tickets to one show or two tickets to two different shows.) For exact performance schedule and to order tickets, log onto www.twusa.org or call Ticket Central at 212/279-4200.