Local actors get stuck into rehearsals of a Christmas classic at Cornerstone

After a successful auditioning process of young people from the local area, rehearsals are underway at Cornerstone Arts Centre in Didcot, for the production of ‘A Christmas Carol’ which starts in December.

The successful auditionees have been split into two teams for the production, which starts on the 17 December. The teams are aptly named ‘Team Marley’ and ‘Team Scrooge’, and they will take it in turns to perform throughout the run.

These talented children will act as the heart and soul of this production playing everything from playful (and quite cheeky) Victorian children who won’t go to bed, to puppeteers, and starring alongside the professional company Smoking Apples, completing this Christmas production.

‘A Christmas Carol’ is a timeless story and award-winning visual theatre company, Smoking Apples, have worked their magic in reinventing it into something unique whilst still maintaining the story’s original spirit and charm.

The cast invites audiences to join Mr Scrooge as he travels through time to learn the true meaning of Christmas with the help of magical spirits, Bob Crachit and Tiny Tim. Integrating heart-warming storytelling and spellbinding puppetry to create a festive experience like never before.

Hattie Thomas, Co-Artistic Director, Smoking Apples Theatre said: “Now that rehearsals have begun, we’re even more excited for people to come to Didcot to see this show. The cast of local young people and professional actors gives the show a special Christmassy spirit and warmth, and it’s hugely exciting to see that coming together. This is ‘A Christmas Carol’ but with an extra sparkle of magic that I believe everyone will enjoy.”

Cllr Maggie Filipova-Rivers, Cabinet Member for Community Wellbeing at South Oxfordshire District Council, said: “It is a pleasure to see local young people taking part in this show. I think everyone coming to see it will get into the Christmas spirit, you certainly won’t feel bah-humbug when you leave.”

The production runs from Saturday 17 to Saturday 24 December. Ticket prices are £16, £14.50 for concessions and £52 for a family ticket of four.

To book tickets or find out more visit www.cornerstone-arts.org or call the box office on 01235 515144.