Taunton Brewhouse have announced a stellar cast of professional actor-musicians bringing festive magic to Somerset this winter in a brand new version of A Christmas Carol, adapted by acclaimed South West theatre company Pleasure Dome.
The multi-talented cast, who will perform alongside a 24-strong local youth ensemble, will work with award-nominated West End director Scott Le Crass to create an enchanting family treat featuring a heartwarming story, new original music and enchanting puppetry.
Appearing in the cast are David Ahmad as Bob Cratchit (The Crucible, National Theatre; The Kite Runner, West End), Lydia Barton Lovett as Mrs Fezziwig (Treasure Island, Louisa, Pleasure Dome), Ian Harris as Scrooge (Tom’s Midnight Garden, UK Tour and New York; Treasure Island, Bristol Old Vic), Zalika Henry as Mother (Mandela the Musical, Young Vic; The Lion King, UK and Ireland Tour), Gina Jamieson as Belle (The Railway Children, Hull Truck; Treasure Island, Pleasure Dome), Morgan Val Baker as Marley (Overspill, Hampstead Theatre; Wolf’s Child, Wildworks), Sasha Wilson as Ghost of Christmas Past (The Brief Life & Mysterious Death of Boris III, Arcola Theatre), and Joe Wiltshire Smith as Fred (The Kneebone Cadillac, Theatre Royal Plymouth).
An artistic collective with roots in Exmoor, Pleasure Dome have a rich history of reimagining classic tales in a powerful way with a South West twist. In this version of A Christmas Carol, we will see Dickens’ timeless story through the eyes of a young girl who has grown up in Taunton.
Helena Payne, Pleasure Dome Creative Director and Co-Writer of A Christmas Carol, says:
“We are so excited to be working with Taunton Brewhouse to bring Pleasure Dome’s particular brand of theatrical magic to Somerset this winter. Dickens’ celebrated Christmas story is as timely as ever and we can’t wait to share our production with audiences. This show has something for everyone so ‘strike up the song in your heart, come play your part!’”
A Christmas Carol is written by Helena Payne and Charlotte Ellen, with music by Kimon Pallikaropoulos. Scott Le Crass, who was recently nominated for Best Creative West End Debut at The Stage Awards for Rose, will direct. Bringing the supernatural atmosphere to life will be Lizzie Watts as Set and Costume Designer and Jodie Underwood as Lighting Designer.
Will Bourdillon, Artistic Programmes Manager at Taunton Brewhouse says: “We’re thrilled to announce a hugely talented cast of performers, many of whom will be acting, singing, dancing and playing musical instruments at the same time. They will be working with a fantastic creative team with a wealth of industry and local knowledge. I have no doubt that audiences can look forward to a wonderful celebration of the festive season this winter.”
A collaboration with local charity Taunton Foodbank is offering families free tickets to see A Christmas Carol. Customers purchasing tickets will be asked if they would like to donate to the ‘Pay it Forward’ campaign. Every penny that goes to this campaign will be used to fund free tickets for families who otherwise would not be able to see the show. The free tickets will be distributed by Taunton Foodbank. The venue has also introduced a family pack saving offer for A Christmas Carol. This new scheme allows all families to save by booking at least 4 tickets before the end of October and save 10% on selected performances.
Taunton Brewhouse aspires to be as accessible and inclusive as possible and welcoming to all. There will be a Relaxed Performance on 19 December, allowing people with autism, learning disabilities, or sensory and communication disorders to enjoy the show without having to worry about making a noise, moving around or leaving the auditorium. On 22 December, an Audio Described performance will feature a live commentary describing the action on the stage, delivered to participating audience members via a headset. British Sign Language Interpreted performances on 19 and 27 December will feature a live translation of the show for D/deaf audiences to enjoy the performance.
A Christmas Carol runs at Taunton Brewhouse from 4-30 December and is suitable for all ages. Book your tickets now or by calling the Box Office on 01823 283244 (open Mon-Fri, 10am – 4pm).
