Sunset Beach Christmas Carol play has new twists

William Anselmo is Mr. Bleak in The Christmas Carol Play. Photo by Chris MacDonald

The 7th Annual Charles Dickens’, “A Christmas Carol,” will have a “hauntingly mysterious twist” this year in Sunset Beach, according to Kathleen Pedick, creative director/writer.

“There will be several new scenes, including one involving the Cratchit Family and Ebenezer writing a letter to Blunt, Bleak & Angus, Solicitors of London,” said the former professional Scottish jazz singer and songwriter.” “We’ve also created a new character, Henry Harrington and other surprises.”

“I advise people to come at least one hour early, since all seating is first come-first serve, and we’re usually playing to a full house,” said the wife of Senior Pastor Joe Pedick, whose Calvary Chapel of the Harbour produces the free event at Peter’s Landing in Sunset Beach.

“Last year, an attorney loved the play so much, he brought his entire Los Angeles law firm on a bus to see it the next night,” Pedick said.

More than 100 cast, crew, costume designers and other volunteers from A.C.T.S. Drama Group, help make it happen. Actor Mark Savalle from the Facts of Life & Dallas, will play Bob Cratchit, and other performers of note will dazzle you in this memorable production, which may end up being made into a movie.

The youngest actor, in the role of Jesus, is Fox Austin, 6-months-old. The oldest, Ray Carvalho, 76, plays Mr. Fezziwig. The play’s longtime technical director is Brenda Garcia. Her husband, Larry, who wrote some of the music and helps with the sound, worked on Disney’s hit, The Lion King, as well as the award-winning TV Show, Northern Exposure. The Stage Director is James Trabilcy.

“A Christmas Carol” will be performed on Dec. 6 (7 p.m.), Dec. 7 (4 p.m.), Dec. 8 (4 p.m.), Dec. 13 (7 p.m.), Dec. 14 (4 p.m.) and Dec. 15 (4 p.m.) at Calvary Chapel, 16450 Pacific Coast Highway, Sunset Beach. For more information, visit ccoth.com or call 562-592-1800.