A beloved Kansas City tradition returns for Christmas starring veteran actor of 38 years
The Kansas City Repertory Theatre’s popular annual production of “A Christmas Carol” has evolved over the years, but there’s been one constant almost from the start in 1981: Gary Neal Johnson.
As the KC Rep turned to new adaptations of the Charles Dickens classic, added diversity to the cast, implemented video projections and more, Johnson was there. The Kansas City actor has played Ebenezer Scrooge every year since 2000, except in 2009 when “A Christmas Carol” took a hiatus so the Rep could stage the world premiere of “A Christmas Story: The Musical” and in 2020 when the pandemic wiped out the production. Before that, Johnson portrayed Dickens as the show’s narrator for 14 years.
He returns again to star in the Kansas City holiday tradition for its 40-show run, starting Saturday, Nov. 23, at Spencer Theatre on the University of Missouri-Kansas City campus. Fellow Kansas City theater icon Nedra Dixon will play the Storyteller, and KC Rep associate artistic director Jason Chanos will direct.
Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning to attend.
When will ‘A Christmas Carol’ run?
“A Christmas Carol” runs from Nov. 23 through Dec. 28, with two shows on several dates. There will be no shows on Mondays (except Dec. 23), nor on Dec. 3 and 10, Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Where will it be held?
The play will be staged at Spencer Theatre, 4949 Cherry St. on the UMKC campus.
How much does it cost?
Ticket prices vary by date, ranging from $54 to $144, including $5 in fees.
Where can I park?
Free parking is available in the faculty lot adjacent to Spencer Theatre or on Levels 5 and 6 of the garage at 50th and Cherry streets. There is an elevated covered walkway to the theater on Level 5.
Where can I get more information?
This story was originally published November 22, 2024 at 5:00 AM.
