About the Dickens Festival

The Dickens Festival is a truly unique experience with street vendors set up a la Victorian England.  You can wander through stores like "Ye Olde Knife Shop" and get your picture taken with Father Christmas.  And nestled in a cozy corner of one of the Salt Lake Fairgrounds' buildings, you'll find the Queen Victoria Stage.

At 5:40 pm, the cast of Oliver (a shortened, 50 minute revue) take to the main stage.  After a one hour break (and costume changes), the same cast reappears as different characters for Scrooge (a shortened, 50 minute revue).  Our performers are done by 9:00 pm each evening.

In addition to performing in the opening number of Oliver, our youngest performers form our Orphan Choir which will perform at scheduled intervals on an additional stage.  For many Dickens Festival patrons, the Orphan Choir is the highlight of the festival!  These orphans are done by 7:00 pm on many evenings and by 8:00 pm at the latest, leaving time for sleep and homework.

Our rehearsal schedule is family-friendly and generally adheres to the following outline:

Wednesday from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm - Adult chorus numbers and small scenes
Fridays from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm - Pickpockets (16 of the elite teen and pre-teen auditioners)
Fridays from 8:00 pm to 9:00 pm - Adult and teen chorus numbers and small scenes
Saturday from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm - Full chorus numbers and run-throughs
Orphan choir rehearsals are still to be determined.  Vote for your preference during the polling window.

We have traditionally had participants from the Ogden area, the Salt Lake Valley, and the Alpine/Lehi area.  Carpools are often available for those traveling from further distances.

If you are a seasoned performer, you will find challenging, athletic choreography, fast-paced shows, and a professional environment.  For those new to theater, you'll find ample opportunities to learn and to succeed at your skill level.  We especially love families and traditionally have related performers spanning multiple generations sharing our stage.

Come be a part of an annual tradition at The Dickens Festival!

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