Dec 6, 2012

Dickens Descendent Returns to Philadelphia Area

Gerald Dickens, the great-great-grandson of Charles Dickens, is returning to the Philadelphia area next week, Dec. 15 and 16, for three one-man performances of his ancestor’s classic tale, “A Christmas Carol,” at Byers’ Choice in Chalfont, Pa.

The Philadelphia area’s Christmas headquarters—where they handcraft the world-famous Caroler figurines—annually hosts Dickens for his special holiday engagements, which he enacts to sold-out crowds.

“Our calendar is always filled with holiday events and activities every year, but Gerald’s performances are often the thing that our visitors look forward to most,” said Joyce Byers, founder and designer of Byers’ Choice. “Everyone should see this magnificent show, and many guests see it as part of their holiday traditions.”

In the show, Gerald performs the roles of all 26 “A Christmas Carol” characters, with different voices and mannerisms for each one. The 75-minute performance takes guests through the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, making them laugh, gasp—and shout—throughout the show.

Byers’ Choice is one of two dozen stops Gerald is making throughout the country during his annual holiday tour. This year’s shows are especially important for Gerald as he is celebrating Charles Dickens’ 200th birthday.

“I’ve had a wonderful time touring the world in honor of my great-great grandfather this year,” said Gerald. “It is very uplifting to see how his legacy lives on. Performing my last shows of 2012 with one of his most famous stories will be the perfect way to cap-off this celebratory year.”

Show times for the Byers’ Choice performances are 1 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 15, and 1 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 16. Tickets are $18 and can be purchased by visiting www.byerschoice.com or calling 215-822-6700.

For more information about Gerald Dickens, visit www.geralddickens.com. To learn about other holiday events at Byers’ Choice, visit the company website.