This festive season, actor Vincent Franklin, best known for his roles in Happy Valley and The Thick Of It, brings his acclaimed solo performance of A Christmas Carol to The Horton Arts Centre in Epsom.

1) Vincent Franklin Takes Centre Stage

Fresh from filming the Doctor Who spin-off The War Between the Land and the Sea, Vincent Franklin steps into the world of Charles Dickens to deliver a one-man adaptation of A Christmas Carol. Following a sell-out 2024 tour, the production arrives in Epsom on Thursday 4 December, promising to both chill and warm audiences in equal measure.

2) A Solo Dickensian Tour de Force

Based on Dickens’ own performance script, Franklin plays more than 30 characters over the course of ninety minutes. His energetic storytelling captures the spirit, humour and atmosphere of Victorian London, blending ghostly chills with heartfelt redemption. “The audience response last year was amazing,” says Franklin. “I’ve been looking forward to this since Boxing Day!”

3) Directed by Audrey Cooke

The production is directed by Audrey Cooke, known for her television work on Trigger Point and I May Destroy You. Returning to her theatrical roots, Cooke describes the project as “an intimate and emotional show” where “helping Vincent build these wonderful characters feels like directing stand-up comedy again.”

4) A Timeless Christmas Classic

A Christmas Carol was first published on 19 December 1843 and has never been out of print since. Dickens’ original readings could last up to three hours; this adaptation runs just under two, with an interval. The story remains a GCSE English Literature set text and continues to inspire audiences of all ages.

5) Plan Your Visit

Date: Thursday 4 December 2025
Venue: The Horton Arts Centre, Haven Way, Epsom, Surrey KT19 8NP
Tickets: Available via www.thehortonepsom.org
Booking fee: £2 per ticket (included in price)

The Horton, a restored Grade II-listed former chapel, is now a vibrant cultural hub offering performances, exhibitions, and workshops.