Online exclusive
Just in time for the December holidays, the National Children’s Theatre (NCT) brings a whimsical reinvention of Charles Dickens’ most beloved Christmas story, with a Dr Seuss twist, A Seussified Christmas Carol.
Playwright, Peter Bloedel, has reinvented the story in rhyming couplets that are a reminder of the wacky rhymes of Dr Seuss. It’s a glorious, colourful and fun-filled introduction to a beloved and timeless holiday classic.
The production runs until 23 December. It follows the story of miserly Ebenezer Scrooge, a fictional character of the original 1843 novella. Scrooge is mean and cold-hearted, until the ghost of his deceased business partner, Jacob Marley, comes to warn him about the ugliness of his greed.
Marley gives him advance notice of the visits he is going to have from times in his life: Christmas Past, Christmas Present and Christmas Future.
“Peter Bloedel has cleverly created a whimsical story that is perfect for the entire family. He adopts a rhyme scheme that everyone recognises and loves,” said CEO at NTC, Moira Katz.
“Parents can rest assured children will find the language most accessible and great fun. The essence of Dickens is still there and so are the lessons to be learnt.”
The production will feature among others, Daniel Geddes as Scrooge, Nomonde Matiwane and Cassius Davids as narrators, and Nieke Lombard as Mrs Cratchit. Jessica Foli, Alessandro Mendes and Blaine Shore will join the ensemble by taking on various characters, including the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future.
Audiences will have the opportunity to meet Scrooge and the rest of the cast and have their photos taken after every performance.
Details: The play, which started on 7 November runs until 23 December at the National Children’s Theatre in Parktown from 10.30am to 2.30pm during government school holidays.
Tickets range from R100 to R120.
Details: For more information visit www.nationalchildrenstheatre.org.za; or contact Sydwell Koopedi on Sydwell@nctt.org.za; Claudy or Cindy on 011 484 1584; bookings@nctt.org.za
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