December 12, 2024
By Eve Copeland

This year, for its annual holiday performance, the Victoria Players Children’s Theater (VPCT) is thrilled to bring to life the timeless classic, A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. This beloved tale of redemption and the spirit of Christmas has been adapted for the stage by James Hutchinson, offering a fresh yet faithful rendition of the story in two captivating acts.

A Story for All Ages

In this fresh, fun, and lively adaptation, Scrooge’s nephew Fred finds old letters Scrooge had written to his sister Fan. The past is unlocked, and Scrooge learns how his fear of poverty and pursuit of wealth have cost him a chance for love and genuine happiness. You’ll see your familiar favorites and some new characters, and enjoy scary, funny, surprising, and tender moments. It’s sure to thrill young and old alike!

A Talented Cast and Crew

VPCT is known for its dedication to nurturing young talent and providing a platform for aspiring actors and crew members. This production of A Christmas Carol is no exception, featuring a talented cast of young performers who bring energy and enthusiasm to their roles. Under the expert direction of Jill Henwood, the cast has worked tirelessly to bring this classic story to life with authenticity and creativity.

The cast includes Bailey Shy (Scrooge), Jack Westhoven (Bob Cratchit), Carsyn Cox (Mrs. Cratchit), Riann Lee (Fred), Julia Paini (Emma), Jocelyn Gribben (Jacob Marley), Wren Dawson (First Spirit), Izzy Vatter (Second Spirit), Joshua Henwood (Young Scrooge, Third Spirit), Reagan Thomas (Belle), Dani Kuck (Dick Wilkens), Gwen Dilts (Mrs. Dilber), Kamryn Wilson (Mr. Bentley), Morgan Belville (Mr. Newbury), Amelie Baum (Mr. Granger), Shaylee McManus (Mr. Fezziwig), Annalise Thomas (Mrs. Fezziwig), Mason Fisher (Boy Scrooge), Cora Dickison (Fan), Ben Chabot (Thomas Harrington), Sylvia Baesman (Caroline Harrington), Harry Westhoven (Tiny Tim), Audrey Barr (Topper), Claire Owen (Abby Cratchit), Claire Westhoven (Martha Cratchit), Elaina Conn (Grace Wilkens), Ellie Jones (Justin Cratchit), Luke Widener (Peter Cratchit), Maggie Loudon (Cook, Rose), and Franco Williamson (Old Joe). Rounding out the cast are ensemble members Brianna Bigler, Julia Damirov, and Kaitlyn McArthur playing multiple roles.

The creative team includes Jill Henwood (director), Dalton Dilley (lights), Evan Bartos and Sophia Copley (spotlights), Sound of Victory Audio Services (sound), Ryan Westhoven (set director), Melissa Sponseller (costume director), and Carter Bergados and Drew Morris (backstage).

A Christmas Carol is fully protected under the copyright laws of Canada and all other countries of The Copyright Union, and is subject to royalty

Join Us for a Festive Celebration

Performances will be held at the Victoria Opera House (101 South Main Street, Baltimore). Show times are Thursday, December 19 at 7:30 pm, Friday, December 20 at 7:00 pm, Saturday, December 21 at 7:00 pm, and Sunday, December 22 at 2:00 pm. Tickets can be purchased online at Ludus – Victoria Players Children’s Theater but hurry as seats are almost sold out.

A Christmas Carol is VPCT’s first production of their “A Hauntingly Great Season Eight” lineup. Beetlejuice Jr. in July and Goosebumps the Musical in October will round out their haunting season.

As always, next year the VPCT will present its annual holiday show the weekend before Christmas.