What do you get when you combine Charles Dickens, classic carols, Victorian costumes, colorful characters, and Christmas – all set on the captivating Bayfront estate of a bygone era?
The setting for "A Victorian Christmas at the Crosley"
Nestled just north of the Ringling Museum of Art on Sarasota Bay rests one of the Gulf Coast’s most precious jewels – The Powel Crosley Estate. The Mediterranean Revival-style mansion in Manatee County was built in 1929 by Powel Crosley for his wife, Gwendolyn. 
Today, the magnificent estate is host to a variety of functions from weddings to parties. But it may also surprise you to know that among the area’s cultural institution like the Asolo Rep and Florida Studio Theatre, the Crosley Estate is home to its own professional theater company - The Powel Crosley Theater.
Actors from left to right: Ann Morrison, Vanessa Webb, Michael R. Petyak, Kathryn Parks, Eileen Earnest, and Christopher Voeller
When was the last time you went to a theater that looked like this?
Going on now through December 21st, you can be part of a festive, interactive holiday show called “A Victorian Christmas at the Crosley”. Eight actors and improv artists guide you through the Crosely Estate as they sing carols and share favorite holiday stories like “A Christmas Carol”, “The Gift of the Magi”, “The Little Matchstick Girl” and “The Tailor of Gloucester”.
One of the "stages" of the evening.
As one of the performers for this year’s show (surprise!), I've shared a number of behind-the-scenes images for your enjoyment.
The director of "A Victorian Christmas", Gary J. Mazzu, as he stands between images of Powel and Gwendolyn Crosley.
Part of the cast as they get ready to go on.
If you want to be part of this exceptional holiday experience, there is still one more week of performances. December 14th at 2:00pm and 7:00pm December 16th - 18th at 7:30pm December 19th - 21st at 2:00pm and 7:30pm Check out the Crosley Theatre website for more information and to purchase tickets. Have you been to a show at the Crosley? Tell us if you enjoyed it in the comments below!
