Jonathan Winters' A Christmas Carol

(Rochester, NY) – Join WXXI and NPR for a reading of Charles Dickens’ holiday classic A Christmas Carol, performed by Jonathan Winters and hosted by Susan Stamberg. Jonathan Winters' A Christmas Carol airs Monday, December 24, 2012 at 1 p.m. on AM 1370/FM-HD91.5-2. Winters presents a distinctive reading of the novella with a unique performance edition prepared by Dickens for his own presentations. Mimi Kennedy is also featured on this NPR special.

A Christmas Carol, first published in 1843, is the ageless story of Ebenezer Scrooge’s personal transformation after visits from supernatural figures. The English novella has never been out of print. Dickens’ work is credited with helping revive Christmas during the early-Victorian era, essentially transforming the holiday into a celebration of generosity, festivity, and family. Dickens’ simple use of morality as a theme in A Christmas Carol changed the holiday from a somber, religious observance to a cultural holiday focused on happiness and giving.

Winters, an accomplished American comedian, actor, and artist, began his successful career as a personality on WBNS-TV in Columbus, OH. He released many classic comedy albums beginning in the 1960s, and frequently appeared on the Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. Winters starred in over 50 films and several television features over his career. In 1999, Winters was honored with the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. Many contemporary performers such as George Carlin, Bill Cosby, Robin Williams, and Conan O’Brien call Winters’ comedy a strong influence.

For a complete list of holiday programming on Classical 91.5, AM 1370, and WXXI-TV/HD visit WXXI.org/holiday

Image: Jonathan Winters
Credit: Courtesy of www.jonathanwinters.com