Thunder River Theatre Company begins a two week run of Tom Mula’s “Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol” this week in its Carbondale theater.

Chained and shackled, Marley is condemned to a hellish eternity. He’s even given his own private tormentor: a malicious little hell-sprite who thoroughly enjoys his work. Desperate, Marley accepts his one chance to free himself: To escape his own chains, he must first redeem Scrooge. So begins a journey of laughter and terror, redemption and renewal, during which Scrooge’s heart, indeed, is opened — but not before Marley discovers his own.

The Chicago Tribune called this play, “an inspired and moving story that makes all that old stuff about ghosts and graves seem both immediate and revelatory - a splendid and invigorating evening!” Chicago’s Herald stated that the play was, “set with a taste for fairy tales and contemporary wit thoroughly charming.” The Chicago Citybeat says this: “Delectably zany inspired theater gives the audience cause to ache, and to laugh, and in the end, to exalt.”

Thunder River’s production is directed by Mike Monroney and features Kent Hudson Reed, Richard Lyon, Lee Sullivan and Chris Wheatley performing all the roles in this irreverent, funny and deeply moving play. Set designer and producer is Lon Winston. Brad Moore designs lights and sound, and Olivia Savard stage manages.

The play opens Thursday, Dec. 6, with performances on Dec. 7, 8, 9, 13, 14, 15, 16. All performances begin at 7:30 p.m., except the two Sunday matinees, 2 p.m. Attend opening night and enjoy champagne and a catered reception immediately following the performance. TRTC thanks Martha and Bill Drake for sponsoring the reception. Tickets and all information are available at thunderrivertheatre.com. Call 970-963-8200 for help or with any questions.