John Hickok, the director for WCSU’s upcoming production of “A Christmas Carol,” has been working as an actor and director for over 35 years.
He graduated from Bennington College with a double major in acting and directing, then went on to study at The Royal Academy of Arts in London. While in London, he directed a show called “Burning Blue.” This production was nominated for two Olivier Awards. For those of you who have never heard of the Olivier Awards, they are equivalent to America’s Tony Awards.
This isn’t Hickok's first time directing for WCSU; he directed “Can’t Take It with You,” and “Anne of Green Gables.” His decision to format “A Christmas Carol” into a radio show is particularly unique. When asked why he made this decision, he said “I happen to love this show and I know that this idea will make it so much fun. The entire show will only be an hour long and it will be perfect for families.” He then offered a more in depth explanation of the formatting, saying “It’s almost as if a radio station in the 1940s is having a live studio audience in one of their larger airing studios. All of the actors were asked to create characters that would exist in a radio show in the early 1940s.”
This production will certainly be entertaining, and he encourages everybody to come and join the fun! WCSU will begin the production at 7 p.m. on Dec. 7, 8 and 9; 2 and 7 p.m. on Dec. 10; and 2 p.m. on Dec. 11. For more information, visit: www.eventbrite.com/e/a-christmas-carol-radio-show-tickets-29407629010.
