Richard Chamberlain in SCROOGE
21 October 2004

Speaking to Richard Chamberlain by phone from his Honolulu home, it’s a little difficult to picture the soft spoken, gracious actor as literature’s classic curmudgeon, Ebenezer Scrooge.

Chamberlain, who made his career starring in phenomenally successful film and TV classics such as "Dr. Kildare," "The Thorn Birds" and "Shogun," has often been cast as Hollywood’s quintessential male protagonist.

However, within seconds of hearing the actor describe his upcoming role, it’s obvious that audiences are in for an unforgettable performance. "I’ve always been a character actor hiding behind a leading man," he shared. When asked about the upcoming American premiere, Chamberlain’s excitement was infectious. "The show is just irresistible with marvelous songs and dances. I think people will really enjoy it."

While best known for his work in front of the camera, Chamberlain is no stranger to the stage. He has received rave reviews in such theater favorites as Hamlet, Cyrano de Bergerac, My Fair Lady and The Sound of Music. And while he enjoys the honesty of film acting, the stage still holds a special allure. "You have that wonderful rapport with the audience," he said.

Based on "A Christmas Carol," Scrooge is a musical version of Charles Dickens’ most beloved novel. Adapted by Leslie Bricusse, it was first presented in 1970 as a movie starring Albert Finney and Alec Guinness, and has since enjoyed a successful run on stage in the United Kingdom. The show includes 19 musical numbers including 'Father Christmas,' 'December the Twenty-Fifth,' 'I Like Life' and 'Thank You Very Much.'

Chamberlain, who fondly remembers watching Alistair Simm in the original black and white film version of the story, finds the musical extremely touching. "What happens to Scrooge is hopefully what happens to human beings in general," he shared, in reference to the character’s journey from miser to philanthropist. "Scrooge finds this through a form of intimidation," he said. "However, the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future are quick to show him, the richness of life he’s been missing."

Unlike many actors, who wait until the first rehearsal to learn their role, Chamberlain has already been exploring how his character will come to life on stage. In addition to learning his lines and songs, he recently attended a photo shoot, complete with costumes and makeup. Within an hour, the handsome 70 year-old saw himself transformed into Ebenezer. "It told me a lot about him, and what I could do with him," he shared.

© 2004 Stacy Housman