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Like the Dickens returns with an all-star lineup

The Ghost of Christmas Present will be a friendly one on December 18 at the annual reading of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol.

The Ghost of Christmas Present will be a friendly one on December 18 at the annual reading of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Like the Dickens, an annual event supported by CBC Radio, brings notable Nelsonites together at the Nelson United Church to present the timeless classic and raise money for the Nelson Food Cupboard.

The doors open at 6:30 for the 7 p.m. event, which features readings by CBC reporter Bob Keating, celebrated author Rita Moir, femme fabulous Bessie Wapp, stage diva Marg Stacey, and top cop Nelson Police Department Chief Wayne Holland.

Mayor John Dooley, the evening’s host, provides lively commentary and Irish charm, and the Nelson Heritage Harmony Barbershop Chorus offers sounds of Christmas to warm hearts and lighten spirits.

In the Dickens classic, Ebeneezer Scrooge learns the value of giving to those less fortunate after he is visited by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future, and sees the difference he can make in the world.

The Nelson Food Cupboard makes a difference by offering barrier-free help to people in need — of all ages and from all walks of life — by providing healthy food to up to 1,000 residents each month.

After the reading, guests are invited to gather in the church reception hall for a wassail or two. The United Church Women’s group promises to bake up a storm.

Tickets are available at the door for a minimum donation of $10. Donations above $20 are eligible for a charitable tax receipt. The food cupboard will also be accepting donations of non-perishable food items at that time.