‘A Christmas Carol’ at Terrace Hill

DES MOINES — During the week of Nov. 24, Terrace Hill, the Iowa Governor’s mansion, will welcome audiences to experience one-of-a-kind performances of Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol.” Performed by the award-winning Iowa Shakespeare Experience, the classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge will unfold in the historic mansion’s parlors, halls and bedchambers.

This intimate adaptation of the holiday classic has been specifically tailored to the antique rooms and atmosphere of the Victorian-era mansion. Playwright Lorenzo Sandoval explained, “Because I wrote this version of the play specifically for the architecture and history of Terrace Hill, the Victorian mansion’s parlors, halls and bedchambers function almost as a silent character. Even if people know this story very well, the evening will be an extremely fresh and new way to experience the tale in an up-close and personal way.”

Tickets are limited for each performance and are sold on a first come first served basis.

“We keep the audience to an intimate size so that attendees can enter each room to sit virtually alongside the actors while they perform the scenes,” said Robin Heinemann, co-producer of the play and executive director for the Iowa Shakespeare Experience

Each performance includes dessert and refreshments during intermission. For the ultimate holiday memory, audiences also can attend the special brunch matinee or patron party hosted by Gov. and Mrs. Branstad in their third floor private residence at Terrace Hill.

“This is my favorite Christmas story of all time, and I have fallen in love with this particular performance at Terrace Hill. We are happy to welcome all Iowans to Terrace Hill to experience this play the way Victorians themselves might have acted out the story,” said First Lady Chris Branstad.

Another new addition to the 2012 show is an extra performance for Iowa’s Military, at no charge to them or their families.

“Christmas Carol” actor and former Naval Officer Matt Wiggins said, “I couldn’t be more excited to have the opportunity to perform for those in services. It is an honor, as is performing in the Governor’s Mansion itself. There can’t possibly be a more beautiful and compelling place for theatre in all the Iowa.”

The holiday show is open one week only with just eight performances. Show times are 7 p.m. Nov. 24-30 and 1 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 25. Tickets are available online at www.terracehilliowa.org or by calling (515) 280-3450.