Brett Crandall and his theater team will present an interactive retelling of Charles Dickens’s classic “A Christmas Carol” at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, December 14, at the Great Bend Public Library. Then on Monday, December 16, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be at the library from 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Throughout the performance of “A Christmas Carol,” Crandall will invite audience members to participate in the experience in various ways, including having some join him on stage to help tell the story. His approach is meant to make theater more accessible to everyone, and to create a more engaging narrative.

Library spokesman Michael Adamyk said the staff are thrilled to welcome back Crandall and his theater team, who performed “The Wizard of Oz” at the Great Bend Public Library last March. 

Crandall is a Kansas native who has lived and worked in New York as a professional actor. He has recently returned to Kansas with the mission to bring quality, meaningful performing arts experiences to his home state. Although many of his previous shows have been created especially for children, “A Christmas Carol” is intended to thrill audiences of all ages, including adults.

The program will be held in the library’s basement meeting room and should last approximately 45 minutes. The performance is free and open to everyone.

Santa Storytime

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be at the library from 6:30-7:30 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 16, for Santa Storytime. Santa will read a special story to everyone. There will be Christmas songs and treats for all of Santa’s friends, and everyone will have a chance to talk to Santa.

Before they leave, children can pick up a present.

Because Santa Storytime has become so popular, it will be held in the library’s large basement meeting room. This event is open to families with children from birth to sixth grade.

For more information about library events call 620-792-2409 or email greatbendpl.info.