“HUMBUG” play in Antioch brings Christmas Spirit to life for 49th year Dec. 19-24
Frank Ballesteros’ adaptation of ‘A Christmas Carol’ showcases local Antioch community theater talent
By Carla Baker Marymee
“Humbug,” a Bay Area tradition is returning for its 49th year. Joe Ballesteros is performing as the character of Ebenezer Scrooge in “Humbug,” as an injury prevents his father, Frank Ballesteros, from performing. “Humbug” is an adaptation of Charles Dickens’ 1843 novella entitled, “A Christmas Carol.”
Presented at the Paulette Taylor Studio, located at 307 G Street in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown, show times are: Dec. 19 at 7 p.m.; Dec. 20 at 7 p.m.; Dec. 21 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Dec. 22 & Dec. 23 at 7 p.m.; and Christmas Eve at 11 a.m.
“Humbug” mirrors the traditional story of Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol,’ similar to the 1954 classic movie and the 1980’s version played by George C. Scott. The production includes one spirit (Jacob Marley) and three ghosts that represent Scrooge’s past, present, and future, with each embodying a different theme.
However, there are a few minor modifications. While Frank Ballesteros’ adaptation of the classic Christmas Carol finds Scrooge understanding that true fulfillment comes from compassion, generosity, and human connection, he also accepts Christ in his heart.
“It’s the same message of Christmas, one of the most iconic and beloved Christmas stories of all time. The message is especially important today. Plays like ‘A Christmas Carol’ are central to many people’s holiday experience because it continues to embody the season’s spirit,” Joe Ballesteros said.
“This play evokes a sense of tradition. Many families in Antioch have made attending this holiday play a cherished annual tradition. The play brings a room of strangers together, providing a shared cultural touchstone, uniting families and communities through storytelling,” Jim Lanter, show producer said.
Presented by the Madd Hatter Players, the actors include: Ebenezer Scrooge-Joe Ballesteros; Bob Cratchit-Curtis Moore; Anne Cratchit-Kelly Halvorson; Peter Cratchit-John Hilton; Belinda Cratchit-Vivienne Riley; Martha Cratchit-Tori Gregory; Elizabeth Cratchit- Avery Simmons; Edwina-Zoey Siino; Edward-John Hilton; Tiny Tim-Nello Siino; Frederick Holywell-Christien Green; Mrs. Cooper-Patti Blevins; The Collector-Suzanne Pamphile; Jacob Marley-Christian Nance; Ghost of Christmas Past-Jenna Riley; Ghost of Christmas Present-Adriana Arceo; Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come-Anthony Chaves; Belle-Jessica Miller Drum; Ebenezer-Jaime Aragon Jr.; Mr.Fezziwig-Robert Sisk; Mrs. Fezziwig-Deborah Misquez; Dick Williams-Elijah Enriquez; Young Ebenezer-Ruhaan Kumar; Fan- Marisa Misquez; Stern Man-David Calvo; Georgina–Olivia Dukes; Alice-Chole Coon; Jane-Paisley Greenlaw; Ignorance-Odin Slaughter; Want-Genevieve Slaughter.
The play is sponsored by the Rotary Club of the Delta and Jim Lanter State Farm Insurance. The play is produced by Jim Lanter and directed by Joe Ballesteros, Curtis Moore, and Kelly Halvorson.
The doors will open 45 min. before show time. The audience is urged to arrive early as tickets will only be sold at the door: Adults $20, Seniors $15, and Children $8.
Parking is readily available at the Nick Rodriguez Community Center, Antioch City Hall, and Pantell’s Music Box parking lot.
For more information, email jim.lanter.b8jq@statefarm.com or call 925-584-9265.
the attachments to this post:
Spirits & Marley
Scrooge – Humbug
Bob Cratchit & family actors Humbug 2025
Humbug flyer
