ThoughtGallery.org > ‘A Christmas Carol: The Surprising Story Behind Dickens’ Classic’ Webinar

‘A Christmas Carol: The Surprising Story Behind Dickens’ Classic’ Webinar

While British novelist Charles Dickens was an international celebrity by the age of 31, he was also a desperate writer seemingly out of ideas. His latest book was a flop; his recent tour of America had ended in disaster; and he was sinking deeper and deeper into debt. But that would all change when Dickens penned A Christmas Carol (1843) in only a few short weeks. This is the story of one of the most popular novels ever to be written — one that not only renewed its author’s reputation and creativity, but helped advance social reform with its universal message of charity.

Join New York Adventure Club as we explore the remarkable true story behind Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, and how Dickens — who rose from poverty to riches and fame — channeled bitter family secrets and rage at social injustice into one of the most uplifting, timeless stories ever told.

Hosted by author and documentarian Steven C. Smith, our virtual experience surrounding Charles Dickens will include:

  • The early years of Charles Dickens and the published works that put him on the map
  • The riotous story of Dickens’ first visit to America, which began amid cheering crowds, but ended in an angry U.S. boycott of his works
  • The inspiration behind A Christmas Carol, which stemmed from meetings with Britain’s most powerful leaders as well as encounters with the country’s poorest beggars
  • How A Christmas Carol revived Christmas’ popularity, which was fading by Dickens’ time
  • Clips from some of the story’s best and most surprising adaptations, from stage to screen

Afterward, we’ll have a Q&A with Steven — any and all questions about Charles Dickens and A Christmas Carol are welcomed and encouraged!

Can’t make it live? Don’t worry, you’ll have access to the full replay for one week!

See you there, virtually! $10.

*Immediately upon registering, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar

**For the best possible viewing experience, please ensure you’re using the latest version of your internet browser — Google Chrome is the most compatible. Exact technical requirements and a webinar user guide will be shared in the automated confirmation email upon registration.

***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week

About Steven

Steven C. Smith is a writer and Emmy-nominated producer whose documentaries focus on film, music and popular culture. For over forty years Steven has studied the work of Dickens and is a supporter of international Dickens societies and museums. Steven is also the author of two biographies: Music by Max Steiner: The Epic Life of Hollywood’s Most Influential Composer, and A Heart at Fire’s Center: The Life and Music of Bernard Herrmann.











When: Wed., Dec. 23, 2020 at 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

While British novelist Charles Dickens was an international celebrity by the age of 31, he was also a desperate writer seemingly out of ideas. His latest book was a flop; his recent tour of America had ended in disaster; and he was sinking deeper and deeper into debt. But that would all change when Dickens penned A Christmas Carol (1843) in only a few short weeks. This is the story of one of the most popular novels ever to be written — one that not only renewed its author’s reputation and creativity, but helped advance social reform with its universal message of charity.

Join New York Adventure Club as we explore the remarkable true story behind Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, and how Dickens — who rose from poverty to riches and fame — channeled bitter family secrets and rage at social injustice into one of the most uplifting, timeless stories ever told.

Hosted by author and documentarian Steven C. Smith, our virtual experience surrounding Charles Dickens will include:

  • The early years of Charles Dickens and the published works that put him on the map
  • The riotous story of Dickens’ first visit to America, which began amid cheering crowds, but ended in an angry U.S. boycott of his works
  • The inspiration behind A Christmas Carol, which stemmed from meetings with Britain’s most powerful leaders as well as encounters with the country’s poorest beggars
  • How A Christmas Carol revived Christmas’ popularity, which was fading by Dickens’ time
  • Clips from some of the story’s best and most surprising adaptations, from stage to screen

Afterward, we’ll have a Q&A with Steven — any and all questions about Charles Dickens and A Christmas Carol are welcomed and encouraged!

Can’t make it live? Don’t worry, you’ll have access to the full replay for one week!

See you there, virtually! $10.

*Immediately upon registering, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar

**For the best possible viewing experience, please ensure you’re using the latest version of your internet browser — Google Chrome is the most compatible. Exact technical requirements and a webinar user guide will be shared in the automated confirmation email upon registration.

***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week

About Steven

Steven C. Smith is a writer and Emmy-nominated producer whose documentaries focus on film, music and popular culture. For over forty years Steven has studied the work of Dickens and is a supporter of international Dickens societies and museums. Steven is also the author of two biographies: Music by Max Steiner: The Epic Life of Hollywood’s Most Influential Composer, and A Heart at Fire’s Center: The Life and Music of Bernard Herrmann.

Buy tickets/get more info now