By Christy Nadalin
Trinity Rep has finalized its 2024 “A Christmas Carol” cast and two Bristol residents will be featured in key roles. Abigail Winsor, age 11, a sixth-grade student at Kickemuit Middle School, will play Scrooge’s sister, Fan, while Lynden Ley, age 8, a third-grade student at Rockwell Elementary School, will play Tiny Tim. What’s more, the two budding actors are friends, which will make the experience even more special.
The 48th annual rendition of A” Christmas Carol” continues the long tradition of young local actors performing alongside Trinity Rep’s resident company and guest artists. Seen by nearly 2 million people since 1976, Trinity Rep’s
“A Christmas Carol” is set apart from other holiday productions in that it is reimagined every year by a new director, cast, and designers.
“Our family holiday tradition is going to see the Trinity Rep Christmas Carol every year, and it always gets me in the Christmas spirit,” said Abby. “Last year, when I saw the show again, I decided I really wanted to be a part of the magic. I love acting and singing so much, and now I get to mix my favorite thing with my favorite Christmas story. I am excited to work with professional actors and act alongside one of my best friends.”
“Lynden has been working in the Film & TV industry since the age of 5, but theater is a relatively new venture for him,” said Ali Angelone, Lynden’s mother and an assistant professor of theatre at Dean College. “Although I warned him about the competition with many kids auditioning, Lynden was determined to move forward.”
“Aaron and I are beyond thrilled. Not only will Lynden have the opportunity to portray such an iconic character in one of our favorite Christmas stories, but he will also be working alongside talented industry professionals.”
“Having Abby take part in the Trinity Rep Christmas Carol is a dream come true for our whole family,” said Abby’s mother, Jen Winsor. “She loves being in musicals and now she gets to experience working with a professional theater team and shine on stage this Christmas. It’s going to be a magical holiday season for sure, and we are so proud of her and all her hard work and dedication.”
“I was very excited to audition for Tiny Tim,” said Lynden. “I practiced my audition song, ‘You’re a mean one, Mr. Scrooge.’ After my audition I heard that I got a call back, and after the call back I heard that I booked Tiny Tim and jumped up and down, ran a lap around the house, I was so excited.”
“ I can’t wait to say the last line in the play, ‘God bless us all, every one.’ ”
This year, “A Christmas Carol” will be performed at the Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC). “Trinity Rep’s Chace Theater, where we have historically staged ‘A Christmas Carol,’ will be under much-needed construction for a full renovation,” said Katie Liberman, Trinity Rep’s executive director. “I am so grateful to our colleagues and friends at PPAC, who have welcomed us to their venue just a few blocks away to ensure our holiday tradition can continue this winter. A Christmas Carol will run Nov. 23 through Dec. 4 and Dec. 26 to 29.