Krieger, Birkenhead Set for Arena's Christmas Carol 1941

Arena Stage has announced that Henry Krieger and Susan Birkenhead will write the original songs that will be heard in the theatre's world premiere production of Christmas Carol 1941.  They join playwright James Magruder (Triumph of Love) on the project.

Adapted from Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol and directed by Arena Stage artistic director Molly Smith, Christmas Carol 1941 runs November 16 through December 30, 2007 in Arena Stage's Fichandler space. 

"In the aftermath of Pearl Harbor, Washington, D.C. prepares to celebrate Christmas. The Schroen family keeps the holiday spirit alive in spite of shortages, a housing crunch and a son who wants to enlist despite his mother's fears," as the show is described in press notes.  "Ensconced in his G Street office, Elijah Strube doesn't care about the holiday or battling tyranny. He can only think about making lots of money. After three local spirits take him on an incredible journey across time, a reformed Strube is committed to serving his community, country and fellow man. Featuring everything from a high-energy USO dance to White House fireside chats, this fresh take on Dickens' classic tale by James Magruder  breathes new life into a beloved story. With original songs by Henry Krieger and Susan Birkenhead, this holiday event is magical family entertainment."

Henry Krieger wrote the scores of Dreamgirls, Side Show and The Tap Dance Kid. He won a Grammy for the Dreamgirls soundtrack and has been nominated for multiple Academy and Tony Awards during his career. 

Susan Birkenhead is the lyricist of Jelly's Last Jam, the Broadway version of High Society (additional lyrics) and Truimph of Love.  She has a Drama Desk Award and has recieved nominations for Tony Awards and Grammies.

Visit www.arenastage.org for more information on the theatre's 2007-2008 season.

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