Orlando Shakespeare Theater in Partnership with UCF (OST) continues its 2012-2013 season with a hilarious holiday spoof for the entire family, The Farndale Avenue Housing Estate Townswomen’s Guild Dramatic Society’s Production of “A Christmas Carol”. Acclaimed director Matt Pfeiffer directs this comedy about a fictional amateur drama group that stumbles in its attempts to bring to life on stage Scrooge, Tiny Tim, and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Future, and Present.  Actors run late, botch their lines, and argue while trying to perform – but the show goes on in all of its festive, comedic glory. Farndale Avenue… performs November 28 – December 30, 2012, at the John and Rita Lowndes Shakespeare Center (812 East Rollins Street, Orlando, FL). Tickets, priced at $16-$40, are on sale now (407) 447-1700 or orlandoshakes.org.

A seven-time Barrymore nominee and recipient of the F. Otto Haas Award, Farndale Avenue director Matt Pfeiffer serves as the Associate Artistic Director of Theatre Exile. Recent directing credits include A Moon for the Misbegotten and The Whipping Man (Arden Theatre), The Lieutenant of Inishmore (Theatre Exile), and Laughter on the 23rd Floor (1812 Productions). Pfeiffer brings his considerable experience and passion to this comedic play-within-a play rooted in a popular British series.

“I think the citizens of Farndale Avenue want nothing more than to the raise the sprits of the community and honor the great Mr. Dickens,” says director Matt Pfeiffer. “Of course, it goes horribly awry, but their hearts are in the right place.” 

ARTISTIC TEAM

Director...Matt Pfeiffer

Set Designer...Bob Phillips

Costume Designer...Mel Barger

Lighting Designer...Mary Heffernan

Sound Designer...Britt Sandusky

Dialect Coach...Marlene Johnson

Stage Manager...Stacy Renee Norwood 

CAST

Mrs. Reece...Karel K. Wright

Thelma...Anne Hering

Gordon...Paul Romero

Felicity...Kelly Kilgore

Mercedes...Suzanne O’Donnell

Orlando Shakes offers numerous events—many of which are presented free of charge—in association with Farndale Avenue that will give patrons opportunities to get closer to the action while making a whole night out of their evening at the theater:

OPENING NIGHT FESTIVITIES

Opening Night pre-show chats provide audiences with the opportunity to further connect with the works on Orlando Shakes’ stages. Join Farndale Avenue director Matt Pfeiffer in the Patrons' Room on Friday, November 30 from 7:15 to 7:45 p.m. as he discusses the play and addresses audience questions.

After the show, audience members are invited to celebrate with the cast, crew, designers, and Orlando Shakes staff at the Opening Night Party. Two Chicks and a Pot provides delicious complimentary hors d’oeuvres. The night will also feature happy hour specials at our cash bar. No RSVP necessary.

PLAYSHOP

School-age children can participate in a fun and creative camp for the duration of select Orlando Shakespeare Theater performances. Led by Orlando Shakes Actor/Educators, theatergoers' children ages 5 to 12 will enjoy supervised arts and crafts, play educational games, and maybe even learn a song or dance. For Farndale Avenue…, the service is available to all ticket buyers on December 14 at 8 p.m. for just $15 per child.  Advance registration is required. Call the Box Office at (407) 447-1700 for tickets and information.

TOY DRIVE

In the spirit of giving, Orlando Shakespeare Theater is teaming up with XL106.7 FM and the Baby DJ Program to help with their annual toy drive for families in need. Patrons can bring new unwrapped toys to the theater to give to charity.

TICKETS: Tickets, Group Rates, and Gift Certificates are available by calling (407) 447-1700, online at www.orlandoshakes.org, or in person at the Box Office located inside the Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 East Rollins Street in Orlando’s Loch Haven Cultural Park.

SPONSORS: Farndale Avenue… is made possible by Massey Services, Holland and Knight, and UBS. Orlando Shakespeare Theater in Partnership with UCF is supported by United Arts of Central Florida with funds from the United Arts campaign and by State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Arts Council.