The Village of Orland Park is bringing a beloved holiday classic to life in a new way, hosting a one-man performance of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol at its recently opened Center for Performing Arts, StudioVOP, located at 14409 Beacon Ave.
The show, directed and performed by veteran storyteller and community theater actor Grant Fitch, will be staged twice only: Saturday, Dec. 13 at 6 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 14 at 2 p.m.
Fitch, who has spent more than 20 years presenting his dynamic interpretation of Dickens’ work across the Midwest, performs every character in the novel himself. “It’s my favorite story of the season, possibly of any season, and I love being able to share it with people every year,” he said. “I draw inspiration from so many of the different versions we’ve all seen. I’m fascinated by the original scenes in the author’s own words, as well as the moments that rarely make it into film and stage versions.”
Tina Cucci Fischer, children’s theater co-director for the Village of Orland Park, will serve as house manager for the production and said she was determined to bring Fitch’s performance to the local stage. “I have seen Grant Fitch perform his magic on various sets far and wide, and that is why I wanted to bring it to the Village of Orland Park,” Fischer said. “We need this one. It’s amazing. I am so glad Grant agreed to bring his talents to us.”
The Orland Park Children’s Choir will perform a mix of sacred and secular holiday music during intermission, adding a local touch of tradition to the event. Fischer said the show will be “heartwarming, haunting, tragic and joyful,” capturing both Dickens’ message and the spirit of the season.
Children’s theater co-director Bryan Riess will stage manage the production and said the debut of the show in StudioVOP marks an important moment for the community. “With each new show, we hope to reach more people and share how important theater is to our community,” Riess said.
Tickets are $10 and available at the Orland Park Sportsplex office or online. Limited seating is available, and walk-ups will be welcomed until the show sells out. To purchase tickets, visit:
https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/orlandparkrecreation/activity/search?onlineSiteId=0&activity_select_param=2&activity_keyword=one%20man&viewMode=list
“It’s local, it’s entertaining, and Grant Fitch is a pro we’re thrilled to bring to our Village,” said producer Jean Petrow, Recreation Division Manager for Orland Park.
The Orland Park Children’s Theater Program and its directors thanked the Village of Orland Park Board of Trustees, the Parks and Recreation Department, and the Orland Park Arts Commission for helping make the new venue and productions like this possible.