Tryon Fine Arts Center starts family series with a ‘Dickens Of A Show’

David zum Brunnen will play Charles Dicking in the touring production of “The Night Before Christmas Carol” on Sunday, Dec. 16 at 3 p,m. at

Charles Dickens will appear on the Main Stage at Tryon Fine Arts Center (TFAC) played by actor David zum Brunnen in the touring production of “The Night Before Christmas Carol” on Sunday, Dec. 16 at 3 p,m.

History, humor and the holiday come to life as zum Brunnen portrays Charles Dickens and 17 other familiar characters, giving personal, social and historical context to the ghostly classic, A Christmas Carol.

This production, described as “…a theatrical daring-do” by the Cape May NJ Star, has toured throughout the United States and is broadcast annually on national public television. The Star goes on to say, “…David zum Brunnen…is lively, physical and energetic…I can think of no better way to get into the holiday spirit.”

This acclaimed one-man show has provided family entertainment for thousands. It is historically accurate, humorous and full of happy holiday spirit. The playwright, Dr. Eliot Engel currently of Raleigh, is an internationally known Dickens scholar, recently inducted into the Royal Society of Arts in England. Besides teaching at the University of North Carolina, NC State and Duke, he has written 10 books, published articles in numerous national magazines, and has given literary and historical programs throughout the world for elementary, middle, high school and adult audiences.

This is the first of two special events planned for families by Tryon Fine Arts Center’s Arts in Education. Performer Billy Jonas will perform on Mother’s Day, May 13, 2013. Ticket prices for these events are set at just a few dollars to encourage families to participate in live theater together.

The Night Before Christmas Carol is sponsored by the Kirby Endowment at Polk County Community Foundation. For tickets or more information, please call Tryon Fine Arts Center at 828-859-8322. Box office hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Tryon Fine Arts Center, located on Melrose Avenue in the town of Tryon, has been a center for participation in the visual and performing arts for over 43 years attracting a diverse range of audiences.

– article submitted by Marianne Carruth