PHILADELPHIA, PA: Walnut Street Theatre for Kids’ production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol will come to life anew on the Walnut Street Theatre’s Mainstage this holiday season. This hour-long musical adaptation of Dickens’ classic novel runs from November 29 through December 21.
Every year, families take a break from the busy holiday season and come together to watch this delightful adaptation of the classic tale filled with laughter, whimsical spirits and original music. The Philadelphia tradition brings joy, warmth and the spirit of the holidays to families across the region.
A Christmas Carol transports audiences back to 1840’s London, where they meet Ebenezer Scrooge, a bitter old man who can no longer feel joy or affection, even for his family. This grumpy old miser’s response to holiday cheer is “Bah, Humbug.” On one remarkable Christmas Eve, he is visited by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. With their help, Scrooge experiences the magic and merriment of the season, inspiring him to change his miserly ways. He truly learns what the holiday season is all about: family, generosity and love.
Students also join holiday festivities by visiting
the Walnut every year to see the most popular Walnut Street Theatre for Kids’
production. Sharing A Christmas Carol with students is
important to Director Bill Van Horn, who states, “Using Dickens’ writing to
expose children to theatre is a wonderful thing. Creating a production from a
piece of familiar literature encourages discussions of imagination in the
classroom before they even enter the theatre.” Teachers agree, as they incorporate
Dickens’ classic story into their curriculum before sharing the gift of live
theatre with their students.
Walnut’s Director of Education, Thomas Quinn, is excited to have Van Horn directing again this year. “Bill brings a unique energy and understanding to the show that embraces the spirit of the holidays,” he states. “This year’s cast will include students from our theatre school, our summer camp, and current and former Acting Apprentices. Bill knows this show better than anyone. And I love when it snows on stage!”
A Christmas Carol has matinee performances on November 29, December 5-7, 10-14, 16-18 and 20-21. The Wednesday, December 10th performance will be ASL interpreted and Audio Described. Tickets are $14 - $16. For tickets and information, please call 215-574-3550 or 800-982-2787. Tickets can also be purchased online at Ticketmaster or by visiting the Walnut’s website at www.WalnutStreetTheatre.org.
