Rachel Roland is a mom on a mission - exploring the Valley with her two little companions in search of the best restaurants, attractions, and products for you and your children. See what she has in store for your family today!
(Photo Credit: Ahwatukee Children's Theater)
I’ve always loved theater, whether it’s a small theater company or a large Broadway show. I really want my children to have the same appreciation, if not love, for the stage as myself.
Jeremiah and I were able to attend the opening show of A Christmas Carol at Ahwatukee Children’s Theater (ACT) and I was so happy we were able to go – the show was sold out! This small children’s theater company serves the east Valley and encourages the love of theater and acting in children by providing acting opportunities in the many plays they put on every year, as well as year-round acting classes.
This is their ninth season of A Christmas Carol and there are approximately 60 cast members, almost all being children. The youngest was 4 years old – that’s my Jeremiah’s age! I can’t imagine him on stage in front of so many people, but all the young actors were very charming in their roles.
(I guess this one is a charmer, too!)
We arrived at the show about fifteen minutes early - which is recommended - and found our seats. The theater holds 85 people, so the setting is very intimate and cozy. Prior to the show, there was a guitar player entertaining the crowd and encouraging the audience to sing along. There were also concessions – hot apple cider, candy, and (Jeremiah’s favorite) little Christmas-themed lollipops that were two for $1! They also were selling raffle tickets for an adorable gingerbread house.
(Waiting patiently for the show to start.)
The show started and we were swept into Charles Dickens’ world of Ebenezer Scrooge. This is a musical version of the story, which both Jeremiah and I loved. There are two narrators who provide humor and silliness throughout the show, which helps to lighten this tale, which can be quite scary and dark at times.
We enjoyed watching Scrooge go from positively wretched to a loving and caring man. Jeremiah shared with me that his favorite part was the ‘scary guy’ – the ghost of Christmas yet to come – played by someone in long, black robes and with bony hands. (That part was quite unnerving, so be warned!) I have to admit, my favorite character was Tiny Tim. The young man who played him was simply adorable and completely comfortable on stage. In fact, he started one song (“Bless Us All”) and sang so clear and loud all by himself, you’d think he was a seasoned actor.
As a parent, I could only feel proud of all the kids up on stage, and was able to imagine how proud the parents and grandparents who were in the audience with me were of their children. I love supporting small theater companies like Ahwatukee Children’s Theater, and encourage you to do the same this holiday season! I'd recommend that this show is good for 4 year olds and up - Sarah didn't attend this show and I don't think she would have been able to enjoy it as much as she would when she's a bit older.
A Christmas Carol only has shows the following dates left: December 16th (7pm), December 17th (2pm and 7pm), and December 18th (2pm and 5pm). Tickets are $15 each and I highly recommend you purchase them as soon as possible by calling ACT at 480-705-9319. The show runs about one hour and forty-five minutes, with a 15 minute intermission after about an hour.
There are strobe lights, as well as fog and snow affects during the show, so if you’re sensitive, please take note.
ACT is located just off the I-10 and Elliot Road, easily accessible from any part of the Valley: 5051 E. Elliot Road, Phoenix, 85044.
I'm Rachel - a mom, wife, and 'green' blogger at Small Steps On Our Journey. If you have any suggestions for future articles or any questions on this one, please contact me at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or tweet me @rachelroland!
