Fans of one of Britain’s favourite Christmas films have the chance to see it shown with a live orchestra this December. Disney’s The Muppet Christmas Carol will be presented this winter on an 11-date UK-wide tour, featuring a screening of the complete film with the musical score performed live to the film.
The tour will arrive at London’s Eventim Apollo on Saturday, December 14, for two performances – a matinee at 1.30pm and an evening showing at 6pm. Tickets for the matinee are selling fast and begin at £51.20, while the evening’s show starts at £62.45.
The film sees the Muppets starring in Charles Dickens’ classic holiday tale, with Kermit the Frog playing Bob Cratchit, the put-upon clerk of stingy Ebenezer Scrooge (Michael Caine). Gonzo, as Dickens, narrates the story with the help of Rizzo the Rat. The film also features Miss Piggy as Emily Cratchit, Fozzie Bear as Fozziwig, and Robin the Frog as Tiny Tim.
When the grumpy Scrooge receives Christmas Eve visits from the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future, they show him the error of his self-serving ways. Though the miserable old man seems beyond any hope of redemption and happiness, the kind and humble Bob Cratchit, his family, and the Spirits open Scrooge’s eyes – and his heart – to the true meaning of Christmas.
The original score was composed by Miles Goodman (Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Little Shop of Horrors) with songs by Oscar-winning songwriter Paul Williams (“Rainbow Connection,” “Evergreen”). Directed by Brian Henson – the son of Muppets creator Jim Henson – the film is an adaptation of Charles Dickens’ 1843 classic Christmas tale. With Gonzo serving as narrator – and a ‘Muppetised’ version of Dickens himself – The Muppets Christmas Carol also includes a series of original songs performed by its Muppet cast.
Now more than 30 years old, the film has become a staple of the festive season for many and is often featured in lists of the best ever Christmas films. Last year, Empire readers voted it the fourth-best Christmas film of all time, behind only Die Hard, It’s a Wonderful Life and Gremlins.
Disney’s The Muppet Christmas Carol plays at London’s Eventim Apollo on Saturday, December 14. See HERE for tickets.
Stay up to date about London’s hottest events, latest restaurant openings, and best deals with our Going Out Out newsletter. Sign up HERE!
