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A Tale of 2 'Carols'

Allison Cahill, left, stars along with, from left, Tom Atkins, Luke Halferty and Erika Strasburg in Pittsburgh CLO's “A Musical Christmas Carol” running through Dec. 23 at the Byham Theater.
Saxonburg native has roles in CLO's musical production

PITTSBURGH — Pittsburgh CLO’s 24th annual production of “A Musical Christmas Carol” features Saxonburg native Allison Cahill.

“I’ve always wanted to do Pittsburgh CLO’s ‘A Musical Christmas Carol,’” Cahill said. “I saw it when I first moved to Pittsburgh and loved everything about the production.”

Having been unable to get time off from work for all the rehearsals and school matinees, Cahill said it was “monumental” to be able to audition for the musical this year and she “screamed with joy” when offered multiple roles.

She is portraying the Ghost of Christmas Past, a charity worker, and the character, Peg.

“I love the Fezziwig and Belle scenes because they are so full of fun, love and celebration, but the tender scenes with the Cratchit family and Ghost of Christmas Present really make my heart ache,” she said.

“The story has always moved me and still does every night. (It) always makes me think about being grateful for the gifts we are given, and how I can live my life better.”

As a Saxonburg native, Cahill’s family members will be around for the show. Her mother, Margaret, and sisters Bonnie and Coralie still live in the area, and her sister Marty also will attend a performance.

“When we were children, we (five siblings and mom) took turns reading out loud at the dinner table and completed several Dickens novels. It was a life-shaping experience and a fond memory,” Cahill said.

Cahill’s recent theater credits include “My Fair Lady” with the Pittsburgh Public Theater, and as Louise in “Always, Patsy Cline.” She also has performed with the Pittsburgh CLO in “The Full Monty,” “The Music Man,” “The Sound of Music,” and as Mrs. Sowerberry in “Oliver!”

In this Pittsburgh CLO production of “A Musical Christmas Carol,” Tom Atkins plays Ebenezer Scrooge in his eighth consecutive appearance. The Pittsburgh native is perhaps best known for his numerous film and television credits, including “Escape from New York,” “The Fog,” “Creepshow” and “Lethal Weapon.”

“A Musical Christmas Carol” is being presented through Dec. 23 at the Byham Theater.

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