PHILADELPHIA, PA: Everyone's favorite grumpy old miser is back in the Walnut Street Theatre for Kids' production of A Christmas Carol! This hour-long musical adaptation of Charles Dickens' timeless tale is perfect for every member of the family and will run from December 3rd through December 20th on the Walnut's Mainstage.
A Christmas Carol is one of the most beloved stories in history and is enjoyed by grandparents and grandchildren alike. Ebenezer Scrooge relentlessly "Bah-Humbugs" every glimmer of holiday cheer, but when he receives some ghostly visitors one fateful Christmas Eve, the grumpy miser finally opens his eyes to the magic and merriment of this time of year. He learns that the holiday season is all about family, generosity and love.
Making its way into the hearts of all who attend, this delightful production of a classic tale has become a celebrated holiday tradition for many Philadelphia-area families. Each year audiences take a break from the hustle and bustle of the busy holiday season to watch this heartwarming story come to life right before their eyes as the spirit of Christmas fills America's Oldest Theatre.
Providing a fresh outlook on this classic tale is Director Jennie Eisenhower, who has most recently directed the incredibly popular production of The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley and Mean Girlz R Bullies 2 at the Walnut. Jennie is a three-time Barrymore Award-winner, including Best Actress in the Walnut's Independence Studio on 3's production of Forbidden Broadway. She is joined by Walnut veterans Musical/Vocal Director, Michael Borton, and Choreographer, Samuel Reyes.
Not only a talented Musical/Vocal Director, Michael Borton also wrote the music, book and lyrics for the hugely popular 2009 WST for Kids World Premiere production of The Berenstein Bears' Family Matters, which toured the U.S. in the spring of 2011. Samuel Reyes recently completed touring the nation with television and radio artist Raven Simone and is regarded as one of Philadelphia's favorite dance instructors.
Returning to the role of Ebenezer Scrooge for a 4th year is Philadelphia favorite, Benjamin Lovell. Most recently, Ben played Cogsworth in the National Tour of Broadway's Beauty and the Beast. He has performed locally at the Media Theatre, the Ritz and the Shawnee Playhouse, and is also known for the locally renowned high-end retail shoe stores that bear his name.
The cast includes local talents Christopher T. McGinnis, Will Harrell, Matthew Mastornardi, Tara Tagliaferro, Zoi Gianneas, and Tommy van Dean of Philadelphia, PA; Danielle Agan of Springfield, PA; Gregory Bradbury of Ardmore, PA; Gianna Ernst of Hainesport, PA; Andrew Goren of Mt. Laurel, NJ; Sammi Zindel of Marlton, NJ; and Brandon O'Rourke of Somers Point, NJ. Also joining the cast will be WST Acting Apprentices Dominic Santos of New Castle, DE; Samantha Joy Pearlman of New York, NY; Nate Golden of Bruceton Mills, WV; and Lauren Fitzgerald of Memphis, TN.
A Christmas Carol has matinee performances on December 3, 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 20. The Wednesday, December 14th performance will be ASL interpreted and Audio Described. Tickets are only $10 - $15. 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.
