Review: A CHILD'S CHRISTMAS IN WALES at STNJ is a Theatrical Gem

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey (STNJ) welcomes the holiday season with a true theatrical gem, A Child's Christmas in Wales. This universally appealing show is on the Madison stage now through January 1st. The production is based on Welsh Poet Dylan Thomas' prose work that was originally written for radio and recorded by Thomas in 1952. It has been adapted for the stage by Jeremy Brooks and Adrian Mitchell. The show features outstanding direction by veteran company member Joseph Discher, musical direction by Robert Long and a stellar cast. You'll be mesmerized by A Child's Christmas in Wales from the very first moment to the final bows. Gather your group and get your tickets now. Artistic Director Bonnie Monte has made an ideal selection with this timeless classic to top off the theatre's successful 2016 season.

A Child's Christmas in Wales is a retelling of Christmas events through the eyes of Dylan Thomas as a young boy. While it evokes a sense of nostalgia, the show is dynamic and entertaining. Thomas' fascinating prose and the show's clever songs bring to life moments that are humorous and often touching. Wonderfully staged scenes depict father and son conversations, gift giving, the imaginative antics of boyhood friends, a vibrant family gathering, and much, much more. The show portrays a simpler time, one that everyone can relate to.

The cast masters the many distinctive and charming characters portrayed in A Child's Christmas in Wales. Leading the company as young Dylan Thomas is Greg Jackson. The troupe includes John Ahlin as Gwyn; Clemmie Evans as Nellie; Peter Simon Hilton as Dylan's Father; Seamus Mulcahy as Tom/Murgatroyd; Andy Paterson as Glyn; Tina Stafford as Dylan's Mother; Patrick Toon as Uncle Tudyr/Smoky; Carey Van Driest as Elieri and Alison Weller as Hannah. Rounding out the cast are Tess Ammerman, Cassandra Cushman, Thomas Daniels, Julian Blake Gordon and Alycia Kunkle. The young actors who portray the Town Hill Boys are Emma Bradley, Ben Hajek, Beth Polito, Mackenzie Schubert and Ian Zane.

Bravo to the Artistic Staff for bringing the true sense of a homespun holiday to the STNJ stage. They include scenic design by Jonathan Wentz; sound design by Steven Beckel; lighting design by Rachel Miner Gibney and costume design by Tristan Raines. The Dialect Coach is Stephen Gabis and the Production Stage Manager is Denise Cardarelli. Piano accompaniment throughout the performance is by Julian Blake Gordon and Tina Stafford.

A Child's Christmas in Wales is a feel good show that is family friendly and also ideal for date night or a theater outing with friends. Experience the wonder and joy that will become a treasured part of your holiday season.

Ticket prices for A Child's Christmas in Wales at The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey range from $25 to $75. There is a 30 and under program that offers $30 tickets for patrons ages 30 and under with a valid ID subject to availability. The performance runs for approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes with one intermission. The F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre is located at 36 Madison Avenue in Madison. Tickets may be purchased by calling the Box Office at 973.408.5600 or by visiting their web site at www.ShakespeareNJ.org.

Photo Credit: Jerry Dalia

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