"Scrooge" Speaks Out

OK, we've heard from the director, so now let's hear from the star of A Christmas Carol: The Musical, which runs this weekend and the next at Huntington's City Hall auditorium. My pal Clint McElroy has starred in a number of local productions, and now that lovable scamp is tackling the role of one of the all-time nastiest stage characters - Scrooge! So let's hear from Clint:

Q: Why did you decide to tackle Fifth Avenue's A Christmas Carol: the Musical?

A: I blame Mr. Magoo. Ever since I saw Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol when I was a kid in the '60s, I've wanted to play the part. It is such an amazing tale of redemption and grace through love... who can resist that?

Q: This isn't your first time being part of this play - what other roles have you tackled?

A: I played Marley when the show was done by First Stage Theatre Company... (12 feet of real, honest-to-goodness chains wrapped around me... THAT was fun), and in the recent Marshall University production I was the ghost of Christmas Present... (in a green fur robe and wreath on my head... I think it's how Liberace always envisioned Santa Claus).

Q: You're a naturally cheerful guy - how much fun is it to play the ultimate grouch, Scrooge?

A: I am having a ball. I'm not used to doing a show where all the little kids are frightened of me. It's a bit unnerving... but I do get first crack at the snack table.

Q: Why is Christmas Carol such an enduring classic?

A: EVERYBODY feels like Scrooge at some point. Maybe you don't say "Humbug!" Maybe you say: "I don't WANT to go to the carol singing at church." Or "Do we HAVE to go to Aunt Bonnie's this year?" Or "I'm not getting him a gift because he took my parking place." It isn't really your nature, but sometimes the holidays can just wear you down to a nub. Scrooge's story tells us that "It's never too late to change"

Q: Why would you urge people to come out and see this show?

A: The music is remarkable. The cast is one of the best ever put together for this region. Mary Smirl has such a wonderful director's vision for this show. Every age will be captivated by it. And the message is so important. AND, there are dancing candies.

Q: What are the dates and times for the show?

A: November 30, December First, Seventh and Eighth at 8pm.... Sunday matinees December 2nd and 9th at 2:30pm.