# **Strings of Merriment: Ronnie Burkett’s *Little Dickens* Plays at the Grand Theatre for the Holiday Season** ![A marionette in a dress that resembles and is decorated like a christmas tree stands in front of a teal curtain.](/sites/default/files/styles/hero/public/2023-11/LittleDickens-photobyDahliaKatz-8367.jpg?h=e8a2a66b&itok=8aiDVjxi) ***Master-puppeteer Ronnie Burkett brings his adults-only interpretation of “A Christmas Carol” to the Auburn Stage*** Created & Performed by Ronnie Burkett With Musical Arrangements and Sound Design by John Alcorn Limited Run on the Auburn Stage November 27 – December 9, 2023 Opening November 28 Season Sponsor: **BMO** **November 20, 2023 – London ON** – This holiday season, the Grand Theatre invites audiences to experience **Charles Dickens'** yuletide classic “**A Christmas Carol”** like never before at **Ronnie Burkett’s *Little Dickens*.** Playing for a limited run on the **Auburn Stage** from **November 27th through December 9th**, the raucous, adults-only production brings back internationally-acclaimed and multi-award-winning puppeteer, **Ronnie Burkett** and **The Daisy Theatre** ensemble for an evening of fun, merriment, and puppets. “Most of us have encountered various versions of “A Christmas Carol” through our lives,” remarks **Grand Theatre Artistic Director**, **Rachel Peake**. “But, I can guarantee that audiences have never experienced it like this – under the inspired hands of Canada’s master puppeteer, Ronnie Burkett. Overflowing with outrageous fun, unyielding creativity, and a dash of mischief, *Little Dickens* is a laughter-packed experience that remains a poignant testament to the true spirit of the season: genuine human connection.” A merry marionette mash-up, *Little Dickens* casts The Daisy Theatre diva, **Esmé Massengill** as the cantankerous, drunken **Esmé Scrooge** – a fading bitter actress. In the lively spirit of vaudeville, Esmé embarks on a journey to redemption, encountering a cast of Daisy Theatre favorites – each portraying Dickens' infamous characters– as she travels her bumpy, often naughty, path to redemption. With **no set script, wild improvisations,** and **mandatory audience participation,** *Little Dickens* promises a **unique performance** each night for audience members **over the age of 16.** *Little Dickens* marks the highly-anticipated return of Ronnie Burkett to the Grand – following his nearly sold out run of **The Daisy Theatre in 2016**. But, Burkett’s journey in puppetry began long before that. The **marionette prodigy** has been captivated by puppetry since the age of **seven**, and began touring his shows around Alberta at the age of **fourteen**. **Ronnie Burkett Theatre of Marionettes** was formed in **1986**, continuously playing on Canada’s major stages, and as a guest company on numerous tours abroad. Burkett received the **2009 Siminovitch Prize in Theatre**, **The Herbert Whittaker Drama Bench Award** for Outstanding Contribution to Canadian Theatre, a **Village Voice OBIE** award, and four **Citations of Excellence** from the **American Center of the Union Internationale de la Marionnette**. In **2019**, Ronnie Burkett was appointed as an **Officer of The Order of Canada**. In addition to creating and performing in *Little Dickens*, Burkett also takes on the roles of **marionette, costume, and set designer** for the production. Joining him on the creative team are: **John Alcorn** (Musical Arrangements), **Terri Gillis** (Production Manager), and **Crystal Salverda** (Stage Manager/Technical Director). *Little Dickens* plays on the **Auburn Stage** from **November 27th – December 9th, 2023.** Single tickets range from **$44.95 - $51.51** (subject to availability) and are available at [www.grandtheatre.com](file:///C:/Users/15198/Downloads/www.grandtheatre.com), by phone at 519-672-8800, or at the Box Office, 471 Richmond Street. To learn more about *Little Dickens*, please visit: [grandtheatre.com/event/little-dickens](https://grandtheatre.com/event/little-dickens). Additional facts, photos, and updates can also be found by following **@thegrandlondon** and **\#GrandGoesLittle** on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. The Grand Theatre wishes to acknowledge and honour the original stewards of the land on which our Theatre stands. Gratitude and recognition are extended to the Attawandaron (also known as Neutral), Anishinaabeg, Haudenosaunee, and Lunaapewak peoples for preserving this land where we gather and create art. **About the Grand Theatre – World Curious. London Proud.** In the heart of downtown London, Ontario lies one of Canada’s oldest regional theatres and a leading cultural hub of today: the Grand Theatre. Under the leadership of Artistic Director Rachel Peake, and Executive Director Evan Klassen, the Grand proudly presents diverse, relevant, and original stories from around the globe – and around the corner – on its two stages. The not-for-profit theatre is committed to developing, producing, and premiering original stories through its COMPASS New Play Development program. Further, the Grand Theatre is an ardent supporter of educational programming, as demonstrated through initiatives like the High School Project and Subsidized Student Matinees. For more information, visit: grandtheatre.com. Follow us on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/TheGrandLondon), [X](https://twitter.com/thegrandlondon), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/thegrandlondon/?hl=en), [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/user/TheGrandTheatre),[ LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-grand-theatre/), and [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@thegrandlondon?lang=en). **For more information please contact:** Caitlin Core, Communications Manager ccore \[at\] grandtheatre.com (ccore\[at\]grandtheatre\[dot\]com) 519-672-9030 ext. 266 **MEDIA CALL When:** Monday, November 27 at 12:00 p.m. (Cameras, please arrive at 11:30 a.m. to set up) **Where:** Auburn Stage, Grand Theatre, 471 Richmond Street, London, Ontario **What:** *Little Dickens* photo, video, and interview opportunities for media ## **RONNIE BURKETT’S LITTLE DICKENS** ### **CAST** Creator/Performer - Ronnie Burkett ### **CREATIVE TEAM** Marionette, Costume, And Set Design - Ronnie Burkett Musical Arrangements and Sound Design - John Alcorn Production Manager - Terri Gillis Stage Manager/Technical Director - Crystal Salverda Associate Producer - John Lambert Costumes - Kim Crossley Puppet Builder - Angela Talbot Puppet Builder - Gemma James-Smith Puppet Builder - Marcus Jamin Puppet Builder - Jesse Byiers Puppet Builder - Gil Garratt Puppet Builder - Martin Herbert Shoes & Accessories - Robin Fisher Shoes & Accessories - Camellia Koo Marionette Controls - Luman Coad Majordomo - Robbie Buttinski Majordomo - Daisy Padunkles