Granite Theatre Brings Nostalgia with “A 1940’s Radio Christmas Carol”
The Granite Theatre Brings a Touch of Nostalgia to the Holidays with “A 1940’s Radio Christmas Carol”
Westerly, Rhode Island — As the holiday season approaches, The Granite Theatre is thrilled to announce its latest production, A 1940’s Radio Christmas Carol, a hilarious and heartwarming play that transports audiences back to the golden age of radio. Running from November 29 to December 15, 2024, this production promises to bring a nostalgic blend of humor, drama, and holiday spirit to Westerly. Directed by Artistic Director Nicole DiMattei, with music direction by Thomas Fuller, this show marks a delightful sequel to the beloved The 1940’s Radio Hour, capturing the charm of a 1940s radio broadcast with a unique twist on Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol.
Set on Christmas Eve in 1943, A 1940’s Radio Christmas Carol takes audiences inside a makeshift radio station in Newark, New Jersey, where the eccentric Feddington Players are preparing to broadcast their version of A Christmas Carol to homes across the country. However, things don’t go as smoothly as planned. As the players grapple with technical issues, unexpected interruptions, and a series of laugh-out-loud mishaps, the play quickly escalates into a whirlwind of comedic chaos. The company’s star, William St. Claire, a seasoned stage actor new to radio, finds himself increasingly entangled in his own personal struggles, which soon spill over into the broadcast, transforming the story in unexpected ways.
As the Feddington Players navigate these challenges, the show takes on new life, blending classic holiday themes with elements of film noir. With a storyline that veers into a detective mystery featuring a hardboiled detective, a femme fatale, and an eccentric villain named Rudolf, A 1940’s Radio Christmas Carol is as much a journey into the world of radio theater as it is a reimagining of Dickens’ work. When St. Claire’s personal struggles lead him to an on-air breakdown, he begins connecting his own life with Scrooge’s story, creating a poignant yet comedic shift. In true improvisational style, the cast must come together to “save” the show, delivering an unconventional conclusion to the Dickens classic that audiences won’t forget.
The production’s director, Nicole DiMattei, is known for her ability to bring rich storytelling to life on the Granite Theatre stage, infusing this classic with fresh perspective and energy. DiMattei commented, “A 1940’s Radio Christmas Carol is a wonderfully unique blend of humor and pathos. It reminds us of the joy of live theater and the magic that happens when performers embrace the unexpected.” She is joined by music director Thomas Fuller, who recently relocated to the area from Arlington, Virginia, where he worked as a resident music director for the American Century Theater. Fuller’s expertise in musical direction will enhance the show’s nostalgic score, which captures the essence of the 1940s.
The talented cast is supported by a dedicated production team that works behind the scenes to bring the 1940s setting to life. Stage manager Judy George, along with costume designer Jane Mandes, set designers Ken Ko and Robert Ladd, lighting designers Wren Tetlow and Don Ellis, and sound designer Bradley Caiola, collaborate to create an immersive, authentic atmosphere. Meanwhile, Kyle Ferreira and DJ Gadget handle foley design, adding live sound effects that capture the charm of old-time radio broadcasts, a key feature that will transport audiences to a different era.
With eleven performances scheduled over three weekends, audiences will have ample opportunity to enjoy the show. Opening night is set for Friday, November 29, at 7:30 PM, with subsequent performances continuing each weekend through December 15. Matinee shows on Sundays offer additional opportunities for families to attend and enjoy the holiday spirit together. The performance schedule is as follows:
- Friday, November 29, 7:30 PM
- Saturday, November 30, 7:30 PM
- Sunday, December 1, 2:00 PM
- Thursday, December 5, 7:30 PM
- Friday, December 6, 7:30 PM
- Saturday, December 7, 7:30 PM
- Sunday, December 8, 2:00 PM
- Thursday, December 12, 7:30 PM
- Friday, December 13, 7:30 PM
- Saturday, December 14, 7:30 PM
- Sunday, December 15, 2:00 PM
Tickets are priced at $35 for adults, excluding taxes and fees, offering an affordable way for families and theater enthusiasts alike to enjoy a holiday outing. This price point, combined with the theater’s convenient location in downtown Westerly, makes it an ideal destination for those looking to add a unique experience to their holiday season.
Those interested in attending A 1940’s Radio Christmas Carol are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance, as demand is expected to be high. The Granite Theatre Box Office is available at 401-596-2341 for reservations, directions, or other information. Additionally, tickets can be purchased directly through the Granite Theatre’s website at www.granitetheatre.org, where patrons can also find details about future productions and special events.
This holiday season, A 1940’s Radio Christmas Carol promises to deliver laughter, nostalgia, and a fresh take on a beloved story. With a talented cast, an experienced production team, and the cozy ambiance of The Granite Theatre, it’s a show that brings the charm of live radio and holiday warmth to the stage. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this unforgettable experience, where the unexpected is embraced, and the spirit of Christmas shines through in every performance.
