Like the Ghost of Christmas Past, the Second City's twist on the Dickensian classic is back to remind you that you've been naughty. Very naughty, in fact, judging by the responses from audience members, who are (anonymously) asked to write down “the worst thing you've ever done.” Some of those responses are incorporated into the performance; the rest are displayed in the lobby. Penned by The Colbert Report alums Peter Gwinn and Bobby Mort, the show satirizes both the original Victorian tale and other holiday staples such as A Charlie Brown Christmas and It's a Wonderful Life. Reprising his role as Scrooge, a caustic and curmudgeonly Ron West is so over-the-top as the classic meanie that you can't help but laugh at him. He's surrounded by a cast with solid comic chops, including standouts Amanda Blake Davis (as Tiny Tim and others) and Frank Caeti (especially in his role as the planted heckler). Though some bits fall flat (such as the Sinatra-esque Gino Santini mangling holiday hits), the anachronistic interjections, improv elements and running gags keep the good times rolling. Director Marc Warzecha's efficient transitions, aided by excellent design elements, support the comic energy put forth by the actors to provide some needed holiday laughter. Kirk Douglas Theatre, 9820 Washington Blvd., Culver City; Mon. (Dec. 23 only), 8 p.m.; Tues., Wed., Fri., 8 p.m.; Thurs., 7 & 10 p.m.; Sat., 5 & 9 p.m.; Sun., 3 & 7 p.m. (no performances Dec. 24-25); through Dec. 29. (213) 628-2772, centertheatregroup.org.

Fridays, 8 p.m.; Saturdays, 5 & 9 p.m.; Sundays, 3 & 7 p.m.; Tue., Dec. 17, 8 p.m.; Wed., Dec. 18, 8 p.m.; Thursdays, 7 & 10 p.m.; Mon., Dec. 23, 8 p.m. Starts: Dec. 13. Continues through Dec. 29, 2013

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