It’s a tale nearly as old as time: The miserly Ebenezer Scrooge is ethically and emotionally transformed after being haunted by visits from the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come in the Charles Dickens classic "A Christmas Carol," now playing at The Little Theatre of Alexandria.

First published in December of 1843, Dickens never intended his novel to become a play, yet it was so popular that within a year there were eight theatrical versions playing in London and America. LTA has chosen the Donna Ferragut traditional adaptation of the Victorian play for this holiday season.

Taking on the central role of Scrooge is Fred Lash. Lash gives a passionate performance that transfixes the audience as he is transformed from despised businessman to generous humanitarian.

Valerie Chamness is the Ghost of Christmas Past, with the incomparable Eliot Bales as the Ghost of Christmas Present and the silent Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come.

Charles Lourens is Scrooge’s terminally cheerful nephew Fred with Gary Cramer as Bob Cratchit, Bob McGrath as Fezziwig and Griffin Melley as the innocent Tiny Tim.

The entire cast is remarkably talented and costumes by Ashley Amidon and Kristin O’Malley combine with the set design of Rebecca Patton to bring the Victorian streets of London to life.

The power of the story still strikes a chord with audiences around the world and remains undimmed by time. While there may be bigger and flashier shows this holiday season, none will warm the heart more than The Little Theatre of Alexandria’s "A Christmas Carol."

"A Christmas Carol" is playing through Dec. 22 at The Little Theatre of Alexandria, 600 Wolfe St. For tickets or more information, call 703-683-0496 or visit www.thelittletheatre.com.