A CHRISTMAS CAROL Returns to Hedgerow Theatre For 21st Year, Now thru 12/31

Hedgerow Theatre continues its holiday tradition with its 21st annual production of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, which runs from tonight, December 6 to 31.

The adaptation by award-winning playwright Nagle Jackson is faithful to Dickens' classic tale of the redemption of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserable, selfish miser whose heart is transformed after he is visited by a series of spirits on Christmas Eve. The story was first published in 1843, so Hedgerow's 1840s' built grist-mill theatre provides the perfect period-appropriate setting for the play, which features a large multi-generational cast and carols.

The 2013 production is once again directed by Producing Artistic Director Penelope Reed, who focuses on a special message each year to keep it fresh. "As America's first repertory theatre, we repeat the plays the audience loves. This year's theme is surprise," Reed explained. "New and returning audiences are in for a treat for this year's special take on Dickens' remarkable story of hope for us all. We explore how the surprise of unexpected events shakes our illusion of control, makes us question our ingrained responses and opens us to the possibility of true personal renewal to the benefit of all."

While there are many families who make a visit to see A Christmas Carol at Hedgerow part of their annual celebration, there are also those who look forward to being in the show each year. "We have a least five family groups who come back over and over to take part," Reed said, "some for as long as 16 years. There are actors who have literally grown up on our stage, starting out as young children and now playing adult roles. It's wonderful to see young people working alongside their parents in such a meaningful way."

Reed believes that the reason so many want to see the play each year is that "it still resonates with modern audiences." She added, "The Cratchits are poor and and many in this economy can relate to them. Dickens' story emphasizes the deep need for people to come together and help each other."

Because of the number of performances, both in the evenings and during the day for school groups, there are three different teams of actors. This is done both to accommodate their schedules and to allow them to play different parts to enhance their experience. Scrooge will be portrayed in all shows by Shaun Yates, last seen at Hedgerow in Corpse! Hedgerow veteran Zoran Kovcic will be the townsperson who narrates the story.

A Christmas Carol opens tonight, December 6 at 7:30 p.m. Subsequent performances are on Saturdays at 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.;Sunday, December 8 and 15 at 2 p.m.; Thursdays at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, December 22 and 29 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Monday, December 23 and 30 at 7:30 p.m.; Tuesday, December 24 at 4 p.m.; and Tuesday, December 31 at 7:30 p.m.

Adult ticket prices for Friday, Saturday and Sunday shows are $34; Thursday shows are $32. There is a $3 discount for seniors; tickets for students with valid ID and children under 18 are $15. For groups of 10 or more, tickets are $18. Prices include all fees and are subject to change. For reservations, call 610-565-4211, or visit www.HedgerowTheatre.org. Hedgerow Theatre, America's First Repertory Theatre, is at 64 Rose Valley Road, in Rose Valley (near Media).

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