The D.C. area’s holiday theater scene, long dominated by Charles Dickens’s classic, has a vibrant new contender this year. Round House Theatre’s world-premiere production of A Hanukkah Carol, or Gelt Trip! The Musical offers a hilarious and heartfelt alternative to the usual yuletide fare. This modern retelling swaps Scrooge for a social media influencer, providing a fresh perspective on a timeless story of redemption, family, and cultural roots.
From Scrooge to a Social Media Star
At the center of the story is Chava Kanipshin, an influencer known as “Queen Vava” whose online fame is fading. Played with sharp comedic wit by Samantha Sayah, Chava is a modern-day Scrooge obsessed with follower counts and online engagement. Her life revolves around her Alexa-like device, “Bestie,” and she values virtual validation over real human connection.
The plot kicks off when Chava, desperate for a viral moment, secretly films and schedules a humiliating video of her childhood friend, Barb Kratzyt. This selfish act becomes the catalyst for a supernatural journey of self-discovery, forcing her to confront the person she has become.
A Spirited Hanukkah Intervention
Instead of Jacob Marley, Chava is visited by the ghost of her late mentor, Mimi Marley, played with chaotic energy by Kit Krull. Draped in tangled wires and lit by a ring light, Mimi warns Chava about the arrival of three Hanukkah spirits. These guides are cleverly reimagined for a new narrative.
The production’s spectral guides bring their own unique charm to the stage, moving away from simple Dickensian copies. The spirits tasked with changing Chava’s ways include:
- The Ghost of Hanukkah Past, played with confidence by Sarah Cooney.
- The Ghost of Hanukkah Present, brought to life with playful humor by Jordan Friend.
- The Ghost of Hanukkah Future, a role masterfully handled by Katrina Michaels.
Through these encounters, Chava revisits her past, including her estrangement from her Jewish heritage and her loving parents. These scenes balance the show’s humor with genuine emotional depth, exploring themes of identity and belonging.
A Score That Shines with Heart and Humor
The musical numbers, created by Aaron Kenny and Rob Berliner, are the show’s driving force. The songs effectively capture a wide range of emotions, from Chava’s defiant social media anthem “Click Block” to the hopeful and stirring “A Light in the Dark.” Other standout moments include the bittersweet duet “The Girl I Used to Know” and the show’s triumphant finale, “Rekindled.”
While the five-piece band and some vocal performances have a scrappy, unpolished feel, this quality adds to the production’s endearing charm. It feels authentic and fitting for a story that celebrates imperfection and resilience.
More Than Just Laughs a Story of Redemption
The show’s witty script is packed with clever references to Jewish culture and playful jabs at the Dickens classic. A well-placed Fiddler on the Roof gag and a puppet cat with a crutch inspired by Tiny Tim are just a few examples of the show’s offbeat humor. Andrew Cohen’s rotating set and Ivania Stack’s colorful costumes create a visually dynamic experience that enhances the story’s vibrant energy.
Ultimately, A Hanukkah Carol is a celebration of reconnecting with one’s roots. It’s a powerful reminder that compassion and self-discovery are universal themes, making it a wonderful and inventive addition to the holiday theater season. This production delivers big on laughs, lessons, and charm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is A Hanukkah Carol about?
It is a modern musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol. The story follows a self-centered social media influencer named Chava who is visited by three Hanukkah spirits that guide her on a journey of redemption and self-discovery.
Where is the play being performed?
This world-premiere production is currently running at the Round House Theatre in the D.C. area.
Is this show suitable for families?
Yes, the play blends humor and heartfelt themes, making it a suitable and entertaining option for families looking for a fresh holiday theater experience beyond the traditional Christmas stories.
Who are the main characters in the musical?
The protagonist is Chava Kanipshin, an influencer played by Samantha Sayah. Other key characters include her late mentor Mimi Marley, her childhood friend Barb Kratzyt, and the three Ghosts of Hanukkah Past, Present, and Future.
