Trinity Rep’s run of ‘A Christmas Carol’ this year focuses on neurodivergent inclusion
The cast of “A Christmas Carol” at Trinity Repertory Company. (Mark Turek)
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — “Welcome home to Trinity Rep” is hung above the doors at the downtown Providence theater known for its annual production of “A Christmas Carol.”
Performances of the beloved Charles Dickens story began last week. Families can experience the magic through New Year’s.
Artistic Director Curt Columbus said the theme of the season this year is family and home.
He told ABC 6 News the theater puts on a reimagined version of the story, and looks to do it a little different each year.
This year’s production focuses on neurodivergent inclusion.
Timothy “Tiny Tim” Cratchit is played by two child actors, who are both neurodivergent.
Columbus said theater officials wanted the audience to think of how to welcome families with neurodivergent children “with love and with care.”
Mauro Hantman returned to play the classic main character who despises Christmas, Ebenezer Scrooge.
“His Scrooge this year is really powerful,” Columbus said.
Columbus said the play always strives to bring joy to children and families.
He added the theater saw a great turnout on opening weekend, which isn’t always the case in early November.
“I think people really need Christmas this year,” he said.
“With everything that’s going on in the world, it’s nice to see something that is universally joyful, that is non-denominational, that invites everyone who wants to hear a good story,” he said.
This year’s production also features colorful, intricate designs, especially for the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future.
“Marley is very scary, but then, it’s a ghost story of Christmas, so that’s what you expect,” Columbus said.
He said one of the most exciting parts of the show is “a Fezziwig party that is off the charts.”
Columbus said the work that directors, actors, and crew members do is always challenging and unique, and equally rewarding.
“It’s a very accepting, loving, and open-armed version of ‘A Christmas Carol’ so we are delighted,” he said.
