National Edgar Allan Poe Theatre to Present Staged Reading of 'A Christmas Carol for Edgar Allan Poe'

The National Edgar Allan Poe Theatre is set to present a staged reading of 'A Christmas Carol for Edgar Allan Poe,' a novel adaptation that places America's renowned horror writer at the center of Charles Dickens' classic tale. The readings will take place on December 21 and 22, 2024, at the Fells Point Corner Theatre in Baltimore, Maryland. This creative reimagining of 'A Christmas Carol' uses the familiar structure of Dickens' story to explore the life of Edgar Allan Poe, focusing on the period leading up to the death of his wife, Virginia Clemm Poe, at the age of 27. The production aims to offer audiences a unique perspective on Poe's life and works, blending elements of biography with the beloved holiday narrative.

The script, based on a story idea from The National Edgar Allan Poe Theatre, was penned by Zac Pensol. Both Pensol and the theatre company have previously been recognized with the International Edgar Allan Poe Festival Saturday Visiter Award for their adaptations of Poe's life and works, lending credibility to this latest endeavor. Alex Zavistovich, Artistic Director of Poe Theatre, expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming readings, stating, 'We're hopeful to see a lot of friendly faces in the audience on December 21 and 22.' Zavistovich emphasized that these readings will serve as a workshop for a full production planned for 2025, making audience feedback particularly valuable.

The creative team behind the reading brings considerable experience to the project. Mark Kamie will direct the production, reuniting with Zavistovich after their successful collaboration on 'Nightfall with Edgar Allan Poe' in Washington, DC, which earned a Helen Hayes Awards Recommendation and a nomination for Outstanding Choreography. James D. Watson, a longtime collaborator on Poe Theatre's radio shows, will provide original composition and sound design. This staged reading marks an important step towards the full production of 'A Christmas Carol for Edgar Allan Poe,' scheduled for December 2025 at Baltimore's historic Zion Lutheran Church. The church has a history of hosting performances by notable local theatre groups, including the Baltimore Rock Opera Society and Iron Crow Theatre.

The National Edgar Allan Poe Theatre, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, holds a unique position as the only company worldwide dedicated to adapting Poe's works for stage, radio, and educational purposes. The company is particularly renowned for its 'Poe Theatre on the Air' series, which adapts Poe's stories into radio dramas. These award-winning programs are broadcast on WYPR-FM and available on platforms such as Amazon Music, Audible, and National Public Radio. This innovative production represents a significant cultural event for literature and theatre enthusiasts alike. By merging the enduring appeal of 'A Christmas Carol' with the enigmatic life of Edgar Allan Poe, the National Edgar Allan Poe Theatre offers a fresh perspective on both the holiday classic and the legendary author's biography. The staged reading not only provides entertainment but also serves as a crucial developmental stage for what promises to be a unique addition to the holiday theatre season in 2025.

Tickets for the staged reading of 'A Christmas Carol for Edgar Allan Poe' are available through SimpleTix. Interested attendees can find more information and purchase tickets at https://tinyurl.com/43nmh8rk. The proceeds from ticket sales will contribute to the costs associated with the full production planned for the following year.