Christmas Carol: The Next Chapter is a New Media Musical currently under development.  This page will be updated with the newest versions of the Book and Music as it develops.  The project was begun in 2016 and has gone through countless changes.  Currently, this site documents:

Version 3.9

A New Media Musical is one that incorporates contemporary medias integrated into the design of the show.  In particular, the work uses: (1) multiple projections are the primary sets, (2) Use of 3D design software for projected sets (Unreal Engine); (3) use of live camera action projected in various set areas; (4) Use of a full "Digital Orchestra" played back via a sound system; (5) Digital Conductor to synchronize all music tempo changes and cues to the live performers; (6) Synchronized Light cues for every scene; (7) Synchronized sound EQ/Mic mixes for every scene; (8) all media run using one central server: (Isadora) to synchronize all sound and media run by one singular operator.

New Media allows for full orchestration and dynamic scenes at a fraction of the cost of traditional productions to allow for a high production value, allowing for small to mid-size markets to produce dyncamic productions normally not available to the sized market.

Synopsis

Christmas Carol: The Next Chapter, is a continuation in time from the original masterpiece of Charles Dickens.  The central thesis is “time”.  What is its purpose this “past, present, and future”, and what do we do with it?  For what are we willing to trade it?  

Act One connects us to new and original characters involved with Scrooge’s attempt at “change”.  The integration of technology into the production is immediately apparent with the projected sets and the use of live-video projection of the spirits, thus aiding in a literal and metaphorical exploration of time and place.   Acting as the creator and narrator of the story, we watch Charles Dickens intersperse questions and words of wisdom on the life events of his beloved characters as they explore time and meaning.

The central arc of Act-1 follows the trajectory of Scrooge as he attempts to “change” primarily through his relationship with the Cratchit family, and in particular, with Tim.   We are introduced to the three Men-of-Business who represent the materialistic world that Scrooge wishes to cast-off.  We also meet the “Spirts” of Marley, Belle (Scrooge’s love of his youth), and past business partner: Dobbins.  We watch the progression of Tim, who is paralleled to Scrooge’s youth via choices that will guide him to similar and variant paths.  The end of the Act moves us in time to witness the Cratchit’s change of affections toward Scrooge and his ultimate transformation to the spirit-world.  

After the passing of years, we meet an older Tim and his newly-wed Isabelle who will inhabit the central focus of the second act.  What have they truly learned from Scrooge?  What choices will they make regarding time and money; and for what are they willing to trade it?     

Act Two further explores the intersections of past, present, and future.  As life’s ups and downs impact our lead characters of Tim and Isabelle, we explore how past influences of Scrooge have impacted them and the decisions they must make in the present.  

A secondary thread of investigation is time itself; why and how is time different for each individual given their variant circumstances?  Why does time seem to move so fast for some and so slow for others?  What is at the center of its inconstancy?  

A third thread of investigation is the variant consequences of the “static” and “dynamic” choices we must make.  What are the consequences of change versus clinging on to constancy?  How do we balance the known with the unknown?

Finally, as the relationship between Tim and Isabelle is tested to the point of despair, the concept of alone-ness is explored primarily by our leads, but also by our secondary characters.  Charles Dickens’ final soliloquy encapsulates the existential idea that each of us will eventually feel alone, and that our actions are what ultimately separates or connects us; even across time.  The living and the dead are ultimately not alone but are bound by “invested” actions.

10. Time is Money

Tempus Fugit (2023 to 2024)

.2

.Original music, lyrics, book, and New Media Technology for Tempus Fugit.   Currently under development.  The opening work has been written, orchestrated and performed at the Rochester Civic Theatre in March of 2023.  The work is for four live actor/singers, multiple projected Avatar Singer/Actors, live dancer and digital Avatar Dancers;  Projected sets designed in Unreal Engine;  Synchronized digital orchestrea; digital conductor; synchronized mic and sound mix; synchronized lighting; central software server running entire media show via one operator.