The Old Curiosity Shop is one of the best-selling novels of all time and has been given a gripping adaptation by Simon Webb for the upcoming United Players’ production at Jericho Arts Centre.
Stuffed to capacity with danger, hope, laughter, tears, and a deep faith in people’s fundamental goodness, The Old Curiosity Shop is a true Dickensian odyssey as well as a powerful affirmation of the power of love.
13-year-old orphan Nell Trent must take care of her ailing grandfather. Dragged into debt by his dissolute grandson, he has turned, as a last resort, to the trollish loan shark, Daniel Quilp – one of Dickens’ most engagingly wicked and enduring characters.
[Olivia Huntsman and Douglas Abel]
This action results in Nell and her grandfather on the run through England’s shady underbelly. Lowlifes chomp at their heels while their true friends attempt a rescue. In the end, balance is restored, albeit with a gut-wrenching twist.
United Players’ The Old Curiosity Shop is directed by Sarah Rogers and stars Douglas Abel, Paul Griggs, Amatai Heyl, Olivia Huntsman, Steve James, Paul Kloegman, Rose Lennox, Kazz Leskard, Ryan McDonald, Emma Middleton, Jordon Navratil, Louise Phillips, Kirsty Provan, Dick Pugh, Zac Scott, Graeme Thompson, and Toby Verchere.
The Old Curiosity Shop
Dates: March 28 to April 20; Thursday thru Sunday, 8 pm; Sundays, April 6, 20; 2 pm matinee only
Venue: Jericho Arts Centre, 1675 Discovery Street, Vancouver
Tickets: $16 to $20, available online or via phoning 604.224.8007, ext. 2
Talk-back session following April 3 performance
Photos by Doug Williams.
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