THIS Friday sees the opening of Charles Dickens’ Christmas classic Scrooge, at the Shelley Theatre in Boscombe which runs until Christmas Eve. This highly entertaining musical adaptation of classic Yuletide yarn will have families rapt in delight.

The period surroundings of the beautiful Shelley Theatre will also add a special atmosphere to the production. The musical play in two acts, was devised under the watchful eye of Dorset-based Broadway and West End Star, Earl Carpenter (producer) and former head of performing arts at Bournemouth and Poole College, Jo Barrington (director).

Earl Carpenter of Ginger Boy Productions said: “Over the years I’ve had some incredible experiences as a performer. I’ve played leading and title roles in some of the world’s biggest musicals. From London’s West End to Toronto, down to Broadway, across Europe and the Far East, but what this project has given me, is a sense of community, something that I’ve not been exposed to in a long time.”

Scrooge is described as a mixed ability, educational production with a fabulous cast with a multitude of specially chosen local young performers. The miserly lead role of Ebenezer Scrooge who only cares about his money will be played by seasoned Southampton-based actor Bruce McIntosh., who has a long career in stage, film and music.

Earl added: “To have a safe and non-judgemental environment to do the thing that brought me great joy as a young performer was one of the most important things for me.”I’m delighted that both the Shelley Theatre and my company, Ginger Boy Productions are providing that arena. The whole process has been absolutely free for the young people involved and the aim is to give everyone the opportunity to experience the magic of the theatre at the highest level we can provide.”

Zoe Dunne of Shelley Theatre said they were very excited to bring such a “wonderful adaptation” of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, as their Christmas show.

“The thought that Shelley Theatre could be hosting such an outstanding production in such a short space of time would have been unthinkable not so long ago. So it is with humility and thanks for all our wonderful patrons and volunteers that we’re able to embrace the delivery of such fine theatre now and we hope for generations to come.” Call 01202 413600 or see shelleytheatre.co.uk