A Christmas Carol Treat From the Guildford Shakespeare Company

Published on: 29 Oct, 2020
Updated on: 29 Oct, 2020

“Expect the first ghost when the bell tolls one…” so begins a Christmas Eve this year, unlike any other, one that will change Ebenezer Scrooge’s life forever and capture the flavour of the festive season for you.

Penelope Keith and Brian Blessed OBE have joined the gifted Guildford Shakespeare Company (GSC) and the Jermyn Street Theatre (JST) in the online production of the Charles Dickens story that for more than 170 years has joyously reminded us of the true meaning of Christmas.

‘National treasures’ Penelop Keith and Brian Blessed set to star

Adapted by Naylah Ahmed and directed by Natasha Rickman, the thrilling tale of compassion and redemption will run from 17 till 27 December.

Jim Findley stars as Scrooge in Naylah Ahmed’s adaptation of Dickens’ traditional Christmas story

This will be GSC’s first Christmas show after their live virtual shows during lockdown (The Wind in the Willows, also with JST, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream, in co-production with Octagon Theatre, Bolton.

National treasures, Penelope Keith and Brian Blessed (also GSC’s Honorary Patron) play the Ghosts of Christmas Past and Present.

The legendary grouchy Ebenezer Scrooge will be played by Jim Findlay (Donmar Warehouse, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre), who was appearing in JST’s The Tempest when lockdown was announced in March. Further casting to be announced.

The show will also feature children from GSC’s drama clubs as the Cratchit family.

Naylah Ahmed has worked extensively for BBC TV and Radio and is a core scriptwriter for The Archers. Natasha Rickman, an associate artist of JST, this year directed The Time Machine for Creation Theatre at the London Library and its later virtual adaptation during lockdown.

Ghosts, time-travel, romance, and the biggest turkey in the shop (yes, the one as big as you), wait in the snowy streets of Dickensian London. And who knows, you may be called on to lend a hand in Scrooge’s journey too. So grab yourself a mince pie and mulled wine as GSC and JST take you on a festive feast of an adventure, all in the comfort of your own home.

GSC co-founders Matt Pinches and Sarah Gobran

Matt Pinches, GSC co-founder said: “We’re so excited to be creating this special adaptation of an enchanting story. Its themes of compassion and community have never been more important, and this innovative production will light up the hearts of all who see it.

“We’re indebted to the imagination of the whole artistic team for bringing this heart-warming tale to your living room, and to Penelope and Brian for granting us their time and talent.”

Tom Littler, JST artistic director said: “A Christmas Carol is a wonderful way for families and friends to get together, wherever they may be, to share in the joy of a truly Christmas story.

“Naylah and Natasha are creating a brilliant adaptation that will be enjoyed as much by grandparents as by grandchildren. Put your feet up, pour a glass of something delicious, and take a break in Dickensian London.”

Tickets £20 per device (max two people per device). Strictly limited availability.

Running Time 75 mins (approx)

General Booking Tuesday 17 November, 10am
Priority Booking Tuesday 10 November, 10am

Booking via GSC Box Office ONLY
www.guildford-shakespeare-company.co.uk/a-christmas-carol