The Georgia Mountain Players are preparing to bring the Christmas spirit to town now with their rendition of "The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge" to be performed over the next two weeks.

The play is set one year after the original "A Christmas Carol" introduces the grumpy Ebenezer Scrooge and details his change of heart toward Christmas.

According to the managing and artistic director of the Georgia Mountain Players, Mike Martin, the play takes place entirely in the courtroom as an angry Scrooge sues his former partner, Jacob Marley, for his offenses against Scrooge.

"It's an extremely funny play," said Martin, who will be playing the part of Scrooge. "It's a wonderful, wonderful way to kick off the holiday season. And it's a wonderful story any time of year."

Citing the similarity of the script's dialogue to the original work, Martin said that fans will probably have a good sense of appreciation for the authenticity.

"It has so much of the original terminology. The play really stays true to the original story," Martin said. "I think a lot of people will want to go back and read after they watch the play.

The play opens at 8 tonight. Performances also are scheduled for 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and a 2:30 p.m. matinee Sunday. The same schedule applies next weekend, with performances at 8 p.m. Oct. 20-21 and 2:30 p.m. Oct. 22.

"The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge" will be on stage at the Georgia Mountains Center located at 301 Main St. in Gainesville. The play is being produced by the Georgia Mountain Players, and is directed by Dianne Martin.

Tickets are $16 for adults and $12 for students, seniors and kids. Call or visit the Georgia Mountains Center Box office at 770-534-8420 to purchase tickets.