What the Dickens? - Stratford-upon-Avon

A brand new theatre piece with music by Clare Norburn, soundtracked by colourful Victorian popular songs and street music, haunting old carols and lively folk dance music.

It’s Charles Dickens’ last Christmas Eve: 1869. Against his doctor’s wishes, he gives one of his acclaimed theatrical readings of A Christmas Carol: but from the moment the lights go down, his life becomes strangely entangled with his character Scrooge. Dickens’ carefully managed image as a family man, who has created the very quintessence of Christmas starts to unravel. He is haunted by the women he has mistreated, who force him to face up to his past, present and future. Can Dickens learn from the ghosts, repent - and be saved, as Scrooge was saved?

“mesmerising”  - The Guardian on The Telling

“an exploration of the boundaries between art and life...intelligent… finds new terrain” - The Guardian on Clare Norburn’s writing

Age restrictions:

Generally, we think ages 11+ would enjoy this play – or possibly younger if they are used to going to the theatre. The play isn't scary – it's much less scary than most films of A Christmas Carol - rather it might be a bit serious for very young children. There are some fun moments and musical numbers and even a bit of singing along for those who want to. It is more enlivening than taking a child to a straight orchestral concert (and we say that as musicians!). We think it depends on the child as well as the age.

Supported by The Marchus Trust, The Golsoncott Foundation, Scops Arts Trust and The Radcliffe Trust.

Photo by Sisi Burn.