Through December 21, All Queer Shakespeare is lighting up the season with their production of A Christmas Carol: A Queer Fantasia – a bold reimaging of Charles Dickens’s timeless tale. As Arizona’s first LGBTQ+ Shakespearian theater company, All Queer Shakespeare is bringing festive fun and creativity to center stage.
Adapted by James Cougar Canfield, this version of the classic novella blends humor, music, and poignant storytelling. The familiar journey of Ebenezer Scrooge takes on new depth, expanding his past through a lens that resonates with themes of identity and redemption.
“Canfield was inspired by the novella but looked at it through a queer lens which explores the origins of Scrooges past through a queer backstory, expanding upon a theme many LGBT folks will resonate with,” Founder and Director Monica Sampson said. “A Christmas Carol: A Queer Fantasia’s celebration of the journey through the lens of a traditional narrative is exactly the goal of our company,” said Sampson. “Queer folks have and always will be part of the narrative!”
The performance immerses audiences in a lively, interactive experience. Featuring vibrant dancing, dynamic musical numbers, and moments designed to draw the crowd, A Christmas Carol: A Queer Fantasia offers a refreshing, inclusive take on the holiday favorite. With its fabulous ghosts determined to transform Scrooge’s “ChristMESS” into a “ChristYAS,” the production promises plenty of laughter alongside heartfelt moments.
The festivities extend beyond the stage show. On December 18, All Queer Shakespeare is hosting a special Pride Night featuring local LGBTQIA+ organizations. Pride Night invites attendees to connect with the community, further underscoring the company’s mission of fostering inclusion and representation.
“All Queer Shakespeare casts beyond the binary, centering queer stories on stage, behind the scenes, and in our leadership,” said Sampson. “We hope you feel welcome; we hope you laugh and experience joy.”
Running throughout December 21, A Christmas Carol: A Queer Fantasia offers something for everyone, whether you’re a longtime fan of Dickens or simply looking for a fresh way to celebrate the season. Don’t miss this chance to experience a new or old holiday tradition reimagined with humor, heart, and a little extra sparkle. To purchase tickets and find more information, visit allqueershakespeare.com.
