Immersive, Covid-secure play with a twist comes to Tunbridge Wells
Harriet Clifford
Thursday, October 22, 2020
A reimagining of Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’ will run nightly at The Beacon restaurant in Tunbridge Wells from 2 December until 20 December. Entitled ‘A Cratchits’ Christmas Carol’ and presented by Get Out Of My Space (GOOMS), the play has been created by 23-year-old Tobias Cornwell and is to feature an immersive twist.
Each night, the audience will choose which of the four-strong cast is to play the part of Scrooge. Sitting in socially distanced tables of up to six people, audience members will also be served a festive three-course meal prepared by Michelin-recommended chefs.
Having been involved in theatre since the age of 17 and having worked with Punchdrunk in London, business studies graduate Tobias spent his time on furlough finishing his retelling of A Christmas Carol. Anna Blackburn, James Alston and Kathryn Djemai make up the rest of the GOOMS team.
Tobias said, ‘It will be a Christmas wonderland - beautiful and grand. There’ll be tables dotted around the space and the Cratchits’ family will welcome you in.
‘There will also be a point near the end where desserts will suddenly be served because Scrooge starts to love Christmas and gives Christmas pudding to everyone!’
In light of the second national lockdown announcement, he added, 'At the moment we are going to progress as planned but with a date change to have performances 2 December to 20 December. There is also a chance for an extension to 23 December if the demand dictates.
'We also want to reiterate and make clear that if any performance is cancelled then all those who have booked will receive a full refund. We’re trying to be a beacon of positivity in these strange times and give as many people as possible something incredible to look forward to.’
Around 2,000 tickets are going on sale, each priced at £55-£70 per person. A minimum of 4 tickets must be booked per table.
The cast of four will be forming a support bubble to fulfil government guidelines.
Updated Monday, November 2, 2020.