Charles Dickens didn't have it easy.
The famous English writer spent his childhood in a factory after his father was thrown in debtors' prison. It's a nugget of history Kathy Daniels kept in mind as she moulded the Between Shifts Theatre production of A Christmas Carol.
Armed with insight into the Victorian-age novelist's life, the director of this year's classic aims to refresh the tale that everybody grew up with.
"I thought that if I changed up the way of delivering the show, the loving message of deliverance will be rekindled," Daniels said.
The stage in the Eagle Eye Theatre will be simplified. The play runs its course without blackouts, as scenes unfold smoothly with the help of a chorus. And the infamous Mr. Bah Humbug's bedroom is set up high on a platform.
"I just want people to really be able to experience the joy of the story like it is their first time," Daniels said, noting the set allows people to fill in the gaps using their imagination.
The show boasts a cast of 25 people, ranging in age from eight to 65 years. Early on, Daniels reached out to the Sweet Adelines women's chorus to see if they were interested participating in the production. Daniels envisioned their involvement similar to that of a Greek chorus. While she expected interest from a handful of members, 12 singers signed on. The chorus has 15 songs in the production.
Currently the actors and the chorus are rehearsing separately.
"I am going to have to marry the whole thing together," Daniels said.
The show runs from Nov. 28 to 30 and Dec. 4 to 7. Tickets cost $20 and $15 for students and seniors. Tickets can be bought at Republic Bicycles in Brackendale or at Billie's Flower House in downtown or online at www.betweenshiftstheatre.com.
