Jesters Work like The Dickens for A CHRISTMAS CAROL

The Court Jesters will be working like the Dickens in A Christmas Carol - and so will some members of the audience.

Writer, director, and Artistic Director of The Court Jesters Dan Bain has used much of the original text of Charles Dickens' classic to create a decidedly interactive interpretation that is "respectful of the story while putting it through the Jesters' filter."

In the novella, the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge is shown visions of his past, present and future by a trio of ghosts. With only two performers and a musician tasked with bringing the story to life, however, audience volunteers will be recruited to help recreate the story. The highly interactive show is "the perfect mix of classic Christmas traditions and the Jesters' brand of fast-paced hilarity," says Bain.

Bain deliberately chose "two of our most experienced improvisers" (Jared Corbin and Kathleen Burns) to keep the story on track, lead the audience through their roles and ensure an entertaining show for all. "They know exactly how to handle audience members and adapt quickly on the fly - even if everything goes wildly off script there's still be fun to be had."

Burns has recently completed a six-month tour of New Zealand naval bases performing The Complete History of the Royal New Zealand Navy (Abridged), while Corbin was most recently on The Court's stage in The Streaker. Both are looking forward to performing in a family-friendly show for all ages.

Artistic Director of The Court Theatre, Ross Gumbley, describes A Christmas Carol as "Scrooge, plus elements of improvisation, in an intimate setting - a great rollicking way to end the year."

With strong advance bookings for the show and some evenings sold out already, additional performances for A Christmas Carol have already been added. Audiences are encouraged to come along and enjoy a fresh take on a yuletide classic filled with Christmas spirit.

#ChristmasCarol #TheForge

Additional Information:

Cast:

· Jared Corbin

· Kathleen Burns

· Thomas Harris

Production Team:

· Dan Bain: Writer/Director

· Sarah Douglas: Costume Manager

· Giles Tanner: Lighting Designer/Stage Manager/Operator

· Ioan Bramhall: Set Designer

· Sean Hawkins: Sound Designer

· Christy Lassen: Properties Co-ordinator

· Charlotte Lloyd: Production Manager

Ticket Prices:

Adult/Senior/Court Supporter: $20

Groups (5+): $17

Child (Under 18): $12

Bookings: phone 03 963 0870 or visit www.courttheatre.org.nz
Show Times:

6pm: Mon/Thurs

7pm: Tue/Wed/Fri/Sat

4pm Matinee Saturday 10 December

Running Time: approx. 80 minutes, no interval