CARBONDALE, Ill. (WSIL)â€� A holiday classic gets a local twist as ¾ÅÓÎÌåÓý Illinois University Carbondale’s McLeod Theater presents A Christmas Carol in a completely new settingâ€�1920s Cairo, Illinois. Directed by Kesiena Obue, a Master of Fine Arts candidate in theater directing, this reimagined production of Charles Dickensâ€� timeless tale will take the stage December 5-8.
Showtimes:
- Evening Performances: December 5-7 at 7:30 p.m.
- Matinee: December 8 at 2:00 p.m.
This production is a fresh take on the beloved story. Set against the backdrop of Cairo, Illinois, this adaptation draws inspiration from Dickens� own visit to the area in 1842 during his journey along the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. Obue selected Cairo to make the story resonate with local audiences, highlighting universal themes of kindness, community, and humanity.
This production uses the adaptation written by the late Darwin Payne, a former scenic design professor in SIU’s School of Theater and Dance. It blends the rich historical significance of Cairo with the social, cultural, and political themes embedded in Dickens� original work.
Tickets are available online or at the McLeod Theater Box Office:
- Adults (21+): $25
- Seniors (55+): $20
- Students (13-21): $10
- Children (12 and under): $8
To purchase tickets, call 618-453-5741 or visit the box office, open Monday through Friday from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Sales start 10 days before the show. Tickets will also be available one hour before each performance.
Don’t miss this imaginative and heartfelt retelling of A Christmas Carol, set right here in ¾ÅÓÎÌåÓý Illinois. It’s a perfect way to celebrate the season and reflect on the power of generosity and community.
