BUTLER TWP — The Hobnob Theatre Company hit another one out of the park with this year's rendition of “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens. The show opens tonight at The Succop Theater at Butler County Community College.

A delightful assortment of new actors and veterans combined to breathe new life into this annual tradition for the holiday season.

The show opened as always with the lamplighter, played by Ken Smith who shed light, both figuratively and literally on the tale to follow.

Following tradition the urchins are adorable with mobcaps and smudged faces and the sweetest voices ever. The costumes in rich hues and fine fabrics with lovely skirts and hats set the tone for the Victorian Era.

Aaron Paul Zimmerman reprised his role of Bob Cratchit yet again. He exuded compassion in the face of crushing cruelness from his callous boss resulting in an endearing portrayal of the humble family man.

Gregg Crawford offered up a commanding performance as the imposing Scrooge. Crawford, who typically plays the randy happy-go-lucky roles, dug deep to pull out the hard hearted curmudgeon. His transition from cad to glad was delightful to watch.

I adored newcomer, Ryan Stephen in the role of the benevolent nephew of Scrooge. His air, delivery and demeanor all seemed genuine which made him perfect for the role of gracious host and believer in all things Christmas.

Bob Meals reprised his role of Jacob Marley. He seemed much more in command of the role this year and more stoic and mission minded with regard to setting his friend back on the right path.

The ghosts were amazing.

Shannon Donovan was eerie as the Ghost of Christmas Past, from her voice to the clothes, she left the audience chilled. Kara Whitmire portrayed the larger than life ghost of Christmas Present. Her lovely rich costume and wittiness did not detract from the dire message she wished to communicate to Scrooge.

Reprising his role of Ghost of Christmas Future was Henry Marquiss, who makes a tall statement without saying a word.

The glimpses into young Scrooge are always fun from the Fezziwigs party where Tricia Eichler and Thom Hilliard gaily portrayed the happy hosts to the party at Fred's with parlor games and frivolity. This year was no different; the energetic scenes were a delight amid the somberness of the tale.

The show is a great way to get into the holiday spirit, to take a moment to go back to the past with the prospect of changing the future.

Well done Hobnob on the continuation of an enjoyable holiday tradition!

WHAT: Hobnob’s production of “A Christmas Carol” by Charles DickensWHEN: 8 p.m. today and Saturday and 2 p.m. SundayWHERE: The Succop Theater at Butler County Community CollegeTICKETS: $10 adult and $5 for children; at www.hobnobtheatre.com/tickets or at May’s Music Shoppe in Butler. If available, tickets will be sold at the door an hour before curtain.