The Inland Stage Company (formerly MRT) presents A Christmas Carol December 3 through 20 at the Esplanade Arts Center.  Directed by veteran Inland Empire thespian Paul Jacques, the show will be the second production that the Inland Stage has performed at the new Esplanade Art Center.

“It’s exciting to work with the recently renamed Inland Stage Company in their new performing space,” Jacques said. “I think its wonderful that such a reputable group like Stage Company occupies the Esplanade Arts Center in San Jacinto.”

Jacques has made some changes to the show in hopes of enhancing the classic tale.

“This production has a couple of scenes that are expansions on mentions within the book designed to give more depth to some of the events that helped shape Scrooge,” said Director Paul Jacques. “Also, there is no narrator. The familiar phrases contained in the prologue and epilogue are spoken by the characters that they most closely relate to.”

Jacques has had plenty of experience with the show; directing, producing and acting in various productions over the years.

“What each of the productions has taught me is how each of the scenes resonate with audiences,” Jacques said. “This knowledge gave me a great advantage when I set out to adapt the novel. I think this makes 14 productions, including a one-man version, and I feel like I know each of the characters like family members.”

Jacques said the cast is the “hungriest” cast he has ever worked with on a production of Christmas Carol. “Which makes for some very focused and creative rehearsals,” he said.

Jacques added more ghost story elements in this show, “so it should keep the audience on the edge of their seats,” he said.

Location:
Esplanade Arts Center
2181 W. Esplanade Ave.
San Jacinto, CA 92582

Tickets:
Call 951-600-7273, email boxoffice@inlandstage.org,  or go to www.inlandstage.org.