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Holiday event set for Dec. 7

 

TRYON—Shakespeare & Friends is presenting an innovative staging of the beloved holiday tale by Charles Dickens, “A Christmas Carol,” Thursday, December 7 through Sunday, December 10, 2023, starting at 6:30 p.m. each evening in the Rogers Park amphitheater in downtown Tryon.

In 2019, Shakespeare and Friends delighted audiences with the timeless story of Scrooge, the Cratchits, and Tiny Tim. Its long-awaited return to Roger’s Park continues the tradition of the classic stage play, with an interesting twist. 

In this updated production, the audience shares the stage with the actors. 

Seated under the roof of the stage, audience members will look out onto the natural beauty of Rogers Park and feel as if they’re standing in Scrooge’s office, sitting at the Cratchits’ dinner table, and walking alongside the ghosts on their otherworldly missions. 

“We want our audience to experience every emotion these characters feel. The poignant sadness and the great joy,” says director Marianne Carruth. “We have a small ensemble cast of talented actors. Other than Andy Millard, who plays Scrooge, each actor in the show portrays several characters, switching seamlessly between them. They’re a versatile bunch!”

A little leery about attending an outdoor show in December? Producer Catherine Gillet has the audience covered—literally.

“Not only is the audience seated in chairs under the covered portion of the stage, with a backdrop to protect against the elements, but we’ll also have heaters, blankets, hot chocolate, cider, and tasty English biscuits to keep you warm,” says Gillet.

“A Christmas Carol” will be a family-friendly theatrical event complete with holiday festivities, including cheerful Christmas decorations, live music, carolers and more. 

Tickets are $10 and available at https://www.shakespeare-friends.com/a-christmas-carol. Seating is limited.

 

Submitted by Darlene Cah