READING Repertory Theatre has announced the cast for its upcoming Christmas performance, an adaptation of A Christmas Carol.
The production, adapted by Beth Flintoff, is set to see the return of Chris Cuming, who directs following his work as co-director and heading up movement direction on previous productions.
George Eggay (The Wife of Willesden – Kiln Theatre; The Last King of Scotland – Crucible Theatre, Sheffield) will be joined by Orla O’Sullivan and Charlotte (both: The Snow Queen, It’s A Wonderful Life, Potted Panto) and Mark Desebrock (Hedda Gabler, The Snow Queen – Reading Rep).
Alongside Cuming on the creative team will be Nicky Bunch as Set & Costume Designer, Aaron J Dootson as Lighting Designer, Joe Dines as Sound Designer, Tabitha Stock as Costume Designer, Nathan Storm as Associate Lighting Designer, Louis Ling as Children’s Manager, Sarah Hawkins as Casting Designer, and Jordan Harris as Production Manager.
This adaptation brings the classic redemption story to the heart of Reading, set in the town’s very own Huntley and Palmers Biscuit Factory.
Chris Cuming said of the production, “Christmas at Reading Rep is always something special. A true highlight of the town’s festive calendar.
“It’s a joy to revisit Beth Flintoff’s home-grown adaptation, bringing together familiar faces from our company and new talent to celebrate Reading’s history through Dickens’ most enduring tale.
“This A Christmas Carol is funny, moving, and full of heart, a story about community, compassion, and the power of change. It’s everything Christmas at the theatre should be.”
Beth Flintoff said of relocating Dickens’ classic tale: “I have always loved Dickens, and I was so excited to adapt A Christmas Carol – its message is so warm and generous and full of heart.
“I immediately knew that I wanted to translate Dickens’ much-loved characters to their respective jobs at the Huntley and Palmer’s Biscuit Factory, as it’s such an important part of the town’s past.
“Audiences will still get to see the old favourites like Tiny Tim and the Cratchits, but this time you’ll find them popping up in recognisable places on the cobbled stones in the heart of old Reading.
“Christmas shows are about bringing the whole family together, and celebrating our community, and I really hope this does that.”
A Christmas Carol is running at Reading Rep from Friday, November 28-Saturday, January 3.
Full details and tickets available via: readingrep.com
