Charles Dickens’ original short story, “A Christmas Carol – Being a Ghost Story of Christmas,” is divided into four “staves,” one for each ghost.

Some of the many adaptations have significantly expanded the roles of several characters found in the short story, left some out and even created entirely new characters Dickens never dreamed of including in his “ghostly little book.”  

Dreamweavers Theatre director Louise Anderson has gone back to Dickens’ original tale and adapted this holiday favorite for the cozy and intimate Black Box stage. In this production, which opens Friday, Anderson and the volunteer actors and crew of Dreamweavers produce a play within a play. A group of guests at a holiday party choose parts and read the story aloud at the urging of their host. As the reading progresses, each party guest becomes more and more immersed in his or her character until the differences between reality and the play are difficult to separate.

The actors include Kevin Barney, Samuel Bartos, Joanna Bourne, Victor Davis, Ann Fink, Matthew Gracy, Joe Lewis, Jeanne Maxwell, Stewart Evan Smith and Rose Marie Sweeney.

Performances of “A Christmas Carol” are Dec. 7 through 16, with shows Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Dreamweavers Theatre doors open one hour before curtain. Seating in the Black Box is limited, so reservations are strongly encouraged. Call 255-LIVE or visit www.DreamweaversTheatre.org. Tickets are $18-$20. Dreamweavers Theatre is at 1637 Imola Ave. in the rear of the River Park Shopping Center behind the Golden Carrot.