Once again the Charles Dickens classic “A Christmas Carol” returns to the Gravenhurst Opera House. CBC Radio broadcaster Bernie McNamee will one of four readers featured at The Op on Saturday December 13.

  The evening readers include Robyn Clipsham, Mike Provan, Reverend Alan Boyd and, of course, Bernie McNamee. McNamee is perhaps best known as the host of “Canada at Five” and the “Radio One Business Network” on CBC Radio.

  This formal evening of entertainment is being presented by the Rotary Club of Gravenhurst. Two years ago, a sold-out crowd enjoyed a most successful evening and now the reading returns for one performance only! Ticket prices are $20 and include a reception during the intermission of the 80-minute reading. The evening will begin at 7 p.m. and promises to be one of the highlights of the Christmas season!

  Musical accompaniment includes performances by the Huntsville Reed Quintet and the Trinity United Church Choir, lead by Dean Perry.

  Thousands of Canadians from coast to coast have enjoyed CBC Radio supported reading of the Carol since 1990 and the Rotary Club is honoured that Gravenhurst has been selected for a performance on the holiday tour.

  “The pleasure of a good story heard for the first time (or for the sixth time), the joy of music of the season and the inspired energy of people who want to make our communities a better place, all come together in this presentation of A Christmas Carol,” said CBC personality Judy Maddren.

  “Most of us lead fortunate lives and this event helps to remind us of what we have and what we can give. I am so glad you can enjoy this special time with me and with thousands of other across Canada this year. Thanks for being part of it all. And thanks to all the CBC broadcasters who give their time and take part so enthusiastically!”

  The reading is designed as a fundraiser for the Rotary Club with proceeds going to support community projects. An additional highlight? The audience will have an opportunity to meet and talk with the readers during intermission!

  This holiday reading is part of the “Fresh Tracks: Winter in Gravenhurst” program, a five-month event calendar featuring more than 70 events throughout the winter season. Please contact the Gravenhurst Chamber of Commerce at 705/687-4432 or via email: chamber@vianet.on.ca for a copy of the publication.

  For tickets and performance information regarding A Christmas Carol, contact the Gravenhurst Opera House at 705/687-5550 or 1/888-495-8888.