Those of you who have been involved with our previous Panto productions will be more familiar with me organizing events behind stage, whilst those of you who have seen our shows will most likely not have seen me! But this year, with a role to be filled, I decided it was time to step out of the shadows and into the world of dimly lit Victorian streets and iconic characters- the world of Dickens- and take on the challenge of directing Cumnor’s very own take on A Christmas Carol! I have long been a fan of Dickens’ stories, Carol in particular, and indeed played a street urchin in a stage production then directed by my father… in a Christmas past, many years ago, I hasten to add. As such, I will look to be faithful to the original story yet still bring in the twists and turns of classic British panto: cross dressing, audience banter, a big-bosomed Dame and as many corny and occasionally risqué jokes we feel we can allow. All this embellished with Cumnor’s very own touches- quality live music, fabulous costumes, stunning scenery and festive bar. We shall meet miserly Scrooge and his ghoulish antagonists, the loveable Crachits, mucky faced urchins and the carol singing Company. So, I invite you to join us on a journey to Christmases Past, Present and Yet to Come as we measure the miser’s meanness, marvel at Marley’s diminishing manhood and take pity on Bob Cratchit’s limp tiny Tim…!

Tim Claridge

Director 2013