| Dickens, an actor since age 9, began performing his ancestor's works in 1993 at the suggestion of a friend. He has spent the past three holiday seasons touring the United States and acting in theaters, hotels and libraries.
Since his first performance at a celebration in Texas, Dickens said, he has been amazed by how strongly " A Christmas Carol" has rooted itself in American tradition.
"(The best part of Christmas is) sharing with other people and opening presents," she said. ("Not like) Mr. Scrooge. He's a good grumpy actor."
Dickens, who now lives in East Sussex, England, and is a partner in his new theater company, Mrs. Humphreys Productions, favors "A Christmas Carol," written in 1834, because it is easy for him and his audience to relate to the characters.
"We all have a bit of all the characters within us. We've all had those Scrooge feelings," he said. "And that we can see the meanest creature be transformed -- that gives us hope."
Hope is what Dickens gave more than 100 people Tuesday while performing "Tea With Scrooge", his rendition of "A Christmas Carol." On a dimly lit stage lined with poinsettias, Dickens cringed in pain, jumped with joy and ventured into the audience to steal cookies from unsuspecting audience members.
He took a treat from Lin Meyers' plate and described it as one of Mrs. Cratchit's prized cakes.
Watching the performance reminded Meyers, of St. Paul, that "giving is true happiness."
He really brought the story to life," said Meyers, who has seen renditions of the story four or five times.
The tale reminded Candy Ricks-Trudeau, 43, and her 6 year-old daughter, Cherelle, that sharing is the most important part of the holiday.
"It has such a great idealism -- spreading cheer and tranquility toward men," said Ricks-Trudeau of St. Paul.
Cherelle nodded her head.
"(The best part of Christmas is) sharing with other people and opening presents," she said. ("Not like) Mr. Scrooge. He's a good grumpy actor."
Dickens plans to return to St. Paul for the 1999 holiday season. |
