The Denver Center for the Performing Arts opens its 22nd staging of A Christmas Carol on Dec. 5. This holiday season, American Theatre magazine estimates 46 companies will be producing professional stagings of the Dickens classic around the nation.

In this video, the DCPA’s cast issues a lyrical challenge to Chicago’s Goodman Theatre to make their own brief A Christmas Carol-inspired video and spread the good cheer across the country by challenging one specific other Carol company to do the same.

The Christmas Carol Coast to Coast challenge is the brainchild of DCPA Music Director Gregg Coffin, who is putting the finishing touches on his “17th or 18th” staging not only A Christmas Carol, but of this version of A Christmas Carol. The one adapted by Richard Hellesen, with music by David de Berry. 

“We all do our own versions of this same story all across the country,” said Coffin, who was inspired by the recent Ice Bucket Challenge phenomenon. This challenge, though, does not involve raising funds. Only spirits. “I think it will be a fun way to unify all of these companies.” 

Companies are encouraged to take the video concept in whatever direction the (holiday) spirit moves them. Coffin hopes it eventually spreads to non-Carol holiday programming as well.

Please use hashtag #CarolCallout

Well, hello … Goodman. Photo by John Moore.

A Christmas Carol: Ticket information
Through Dec 28
Stage Theatre
Accessible Performance: 1:30 p.m. Dec. 20
Tickets: 303-893-4100 or 800-641-1222
Groups (10 or more): 303-446-4829

Our previous coverage of A Christmas Carol on the NewsCenter:
Actor Scott McLean is now also a published children’s author
Video: The Christmas Carol Coast to Coast Challenge. No. 1: Denver
By the numbers: A Christmas Carol over 22 years at the DCPA
First day of 2014 rehearsal: Interviews, cast list and photos
Meet the cast video: James Michael Reilly
Meet the cast video: Leslie Alexander