Ever since they were first published, Dickens’ novels have been adapted for the stage, and now they provide the ideal contrast to The Players’ traditional summer Shakespeare productions.
A Christmas Carol, adapted by Gary Sefton is the inspiration behind director Mary Stastny’s December production. The opening performance at Whorlton Village Hall has already sold out but the company has two further performances at The Witham, Barnard Castle on Saturday, December 16.
“The three ghosts take Scrooge on a journey through his past, present and future in order to teach him that it is never too late to turn over a new leaf and discover the joy of generosity and goodwill,” said Ms Stastny. “The show aims to include everyone: the audience can join in the singing, children will be invited to join the dance, and there will even be a snowball fight where cast and audience can take pot shots at Scrooge.”
Live music is provided by The Dalesiders – Neville Kirby, Martyn Coates, Nicky Tulloch, Diana Wilkes and Bob Morrow in what promises to be a production to put everyone in the mood for the festive season.
Laurence Sach, meanwhile, has turned his attention to Oliver Twist for The Players’ winter tour of local village halls and community centres. Opening at The Witham on Saturday, January 6, it will tour until Sunday, February 4.
“Dickens created such vivid characters and wrote such wonderful dialogue that the stories seem to be at home on the stage,’ said Mr Sach. “Although Dickens had a serious concern for the poor, his sense of humour meant that he always conveyed his message with a keenly satirical edge.”
With their focus on children the productions also introduce two young performers new to The Castle Players. Ten-year-old Jack Nelson takes on the role of Tiny Tim in A Christmas Carol and Ben Blackie the title role in Oliver Twist.
A Christmas Carol is at The Witham, Barnard Castle, at 3pm and 7.30pm on Saturday, December 16, and Oliver Twist opens there on Saturday, January 6, at 7.30pm.
Tickets online at www.thewitham.
org.uk, in person or phone 01833 631107
A full tour schedule for Oliver Twist is available at www.castleplayers.co.uk
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